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ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools
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Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools
PREPARATION ANSWER KEY
Reading and Use of English
Part 1...
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ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation  Practice for B2 First for Schools
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• adjective: original
• it’s proba...
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  1. 1. Answer key Answer key for Preparation ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools
  2. 2. Answer key Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools PREPARATION ANSWER KEY Reading and Use of English Part 1 p9 1 act suspiciously ​ bitterly cold ​ computer screen ​ draw the curtains ​ drive dangerously ​ eat healthily ​ fully aware ​ heart attack ​ heavy traffic ​ mutual friend ​ picture frame ​ seat belt ​ seriously injured ​ shake hands ​ soft drink ​ strong coffee ​ tell the truth ​ virtually impossible ​ walk briskly ​ watch television 2 a heavy traffic b bitterly cold c computer screen d eat healthily e shake hands f strong coffee g drive dangerously h virtually impossible i tell the truth j seat belt 3 a verbs accuse someone of something congratulate someone on something lend something to someone rely on someone to do something share something with someone b nouns feel anger about something show curiosity about something show enthusiasm for something express an interest in something show kindness to someone c adjectives be afraid of something be famous for something be jealous of someone be keen on something be sorry for someone about something 4 a I’ve always got on well with my sister. We’ve never been jealous of each other. b You shouldn’t accuse someone of something if you have no proof. c Children who sleep with the light are often afraid of the dark. d My brother expressed an interest in football at a very early age. e The manager congratulated the team on winning the cup for the second year. Part 2 p12 1 1 preposition 2 relative pronoun 3 article 4 verb 5 auxiliary verb 6 conjunction 7 preposition 8 auxiliary verb 1 in 2 which 3 the 4 have 5 will 6 and 7 at 8 are 2 1 for 2 if/whether 3 but 4 at 5 more 6 to 7 from 8 the 9 when 10 did Part 3 p14 1 Words in brackets are above B2 level. a REAL Adjective: real, realistic Noun: reality (realism) (realist) Verb: realize Adverb: really (realistically) b CREATE Adjective: creative Noun: creation (creator) Verb: create Adverb: creatively c EXCITE Adjective: exciting, excited Noun: excitement Verb: excite Adverb: excitedly (excitingly) d USE Adjective: useful, useless Noun: use, user Verb: use, abuse (misuse) Adverb: usefully (uselessly) e SUCCEED Adjective: successful, unsuccessful Noun: success Verb: succeed Adverb: successfully f ATTRACT Adjective: attractive Noun: attraction Verb: attract Adverb: attractively g PRODUCE Adjective: productive Noun: product, producer, production (produce) (productivity) Verb: produce Adverb: productively h KNOW Adjective: (knowing) (knowledgeable) Noun: knowledge Verb: know Adverb: (knowingly) (knowledgeably) i ACT Adjective: active (inactive) Noun: action, act, actor Verb: act Adverb: actively j PERFECT Adjective: perfect (imperfect) Noun: (perfection) Verb: perfect Adverb: perfectly (imperfectly) 2 a musicians • adjective: classical • noun • plural b extremely • adjective: talented • another adjective or adverb • -ly c  criticism • verb: has faced • noun / adjective d  disagrees • verb • -s (3rd person singular) • negative e  pleasure • adjective: great • noun ANSWER KEY © Copyright Oxford University Press
  3. 3. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools f  exciting • adjective: original • it’s probably another adjective g  composer • a talented followed by a noun Part 4 p17 1 a as expensive as b wishes he had not / hadn’t left c cannot / can’t afford to d have / ’ve never seen such a e time we had / time for us to have f wanted to know where Gemma g looking forward to going 2 a comparatives and superlatives b verb patterns c lexical patterns d lexical patterns e past tense with ‘unreal’ meaning f direct and reported speech g phrasal verbs 3 a were you, I would / I’d b cut down on c is being built d if she had / she’d seen his e was easier than Tom had f if he does not / doesn’t spend g could you lend h is believed to have caused Part 5 p20 1 Paragraph 1: introducing the duo Paragraph 2: reasons for success 2 1 C 2 A 3 1 two years 2  They live near to each other and they are friends who like the same music. 3 Alexis and Tom are used to playing jazz. 4 All of them write songs for the quartet. 4 1 B neck of the woods means a particular area 2 C by our own efforts means without anyone’s help Part 6 p24 1 a One of the reasons for this b This c However d These e These mechanisms f This 2 a After that / Next / Then b At the same time (as this) / In addition to this c Because of this d For example / For instance e She f In addition to this / Then 3 More information about how plants manage to live without light. 4 C Part 7 p28 1 colleague = person you work with culture = way of life grateful = wanting to say ‘Thank you’ group of people of the same age = generation manage to continue = survive participant = someone who takes part refugee = someone forced to leave their country sightseeing = visiting attractions someone I share accommodation with = flatmate someone who believes good things will happen = optimist 2 1  a Marcia b Rob c Frances d Marcia e Rob f Frances 2  a Marcia’s b Frances’ c Rob’s d Frances’ e Rob’s 3 1 C 2 A 3 C 4 B 5 A 6 A 7 C 8 B 9 A Writing Part 1 Essay p32 1 Children should start learning a second language while they are at primary school. Do you agree? Notes Things to write about 1. the importance of learning a second language 2. the best age to start 3. my experience 2 Students’ own answers 3 Plan 2 is best. Paragraph 1 introduces the subject; paragraphs 2 and 3 consider both sides of the argument. Paragraph 4 expresses the writer’s own opinion. Plan 1 has no logical structure. It moves from one subject to the other in a random way and has no conclusion. Plan 3 only considers the writer’s opinion and just lists reasons for this opinion. Also, it has no conclusion. 4 Paragraph C is the best because it introduces the subject briefly and outlines two possible lines of argument. It also includes the issues raised in the notes given in the question. It does not give away the writer’s opinion too early. Paragraph A launches straight into some of the issues implied in the question in an unstructured way. This writer seems to be writing ideas as they come into their head without linking them in any way. Paragraph B starts with the writer’s personal account of learning a second language rather than introducing the topic in an objective, non-personal way. There is no indication in this paragraph that the writer is going to consider the two sides of the argument before reaching a considered conclusion. © Copyright Oxford University Press
  4. 4. Answer key Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools Part 2 Email p35 1 a an English-speaking friend b quite informal – you can use contracted verb forms. c name the most popular kind of food; say whether this food is modern or traditional; how it is made and how it is eaten; whether you like it yourself 2 Possible paragraph plan with approximate number of words: Para 1  Introduction: Start with a friendly greeting. (20–25 words) Para 2  Name and describe the most popular kind of food and say if it is traditional or modern. (45–60 words) Para 3  Say how this food is usually made and eaten. (45–60 words) Para 4  Conclusion: Say whether you like the food and give a reason. Wish your friend well. (20–35 words) 3 Comments on the answer: •  Content – The writer covers most of the points but describes the food as ‘old-fashioned’ rather than ‘traditional’. •  Communicative achievement – Communication is hampered by the lack of overall organization. It is quite interesting, but probably frustrating to read for the person who asked for the information. Spelling – two errors: definately instead of definitely old-fashoned instead of old-fashioned Style – inconsistent. Sometimes too formal: It was good to receive your email. (Better It was good to hear from you or Thank you for your email.) the majority of the population (Better: most people) it’s usually accompanied by tomato sauce (Better: it’s usually with tomato sauce) •  Organization – Poor. There is no paragraphing (apart from the last signing-off paragraph). Sentences do not follow on logically from each other. The underlined part of this section interrupts the flow: Your project on popular food in different countries sounds really interesting. I’d like to know more about that subject myself. The most popular food in … •  Language – Grammar is generally accurate, though there are a few slips: everyone I know like it instead of likes it it’s quite hard when you’re buying it from the shops instead of you buy it keep on touch instead of keep in touch Lack of variety: Overuse of the adverb quite. Poor sentence construction, for example And it’s quite cheap. Possible improved version based on the same basic information: 4 a  the school principal will read it b formal c  reasons why new students don’t feel relaxed; how it shows; ways in which this situation could be improved 5 Possible paragraph plan with approximate number of words: Para 1  Introduction: Say that, from your own experience, you understand the problem and that you appreciate being asked for suggestions. (20–25 words) Para 2  Give one or two reasons why new students may not feel relaxed and say how this shows. (45–60 words) Para 3  Suggest something the school could do to make new students feel less worried. (45–60 words) Para 4  Ending: Say that you hope your suggestions will help to improve the situation for new students. (20–35 words) Part 2 Story p37 1 Students’ own answers 2 1 switched off 2 wondered 3 had just heard 4 had fallen 5  was blocking / had blocked 6 made 7 said 8 put 9 got 10 was lying 11 wasn’t 12 didn’t stop 13 started 14 couldn’t see 15 was going 16 was 17 knew 18 couldn’t get 19 remembered 20 lived 21 took 22 called 23 had decided 24 told Hi Leanne, It’s good to hear from you. Your school project on popular food in different countries sounds very interesting. I’ll be happy to help. (23) There are a lot of kinds of food which are popular in my country, but I’d say the most popular of all is pasta. Many people eat it every day, once or sometimes twice. It is a traditional food which everyone can afford. This is why it is so popular. (50) Pasta can be eaten hot or cold but first it has to be boiled in water until it is soft. We usually eat it with a simple sauce made of tomato, meat or cheese – sometimes all three! If people eat it cold it is often used in salads. (48) I have eaten pasta since I was little and I love it. I hope this helps with your project. Let me know how it goes. (25) Your friend … ANSWER KEY © Copyright Oxford University Press
  5. 5. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools 3 a best/close/good; heavy/thick; main/narrow/quiet b quickly/immediately c thickest/warmest; immediately/quickly d heavily/thickly e easily/quickly f new/heavy/thick 4 a during b After/As soon as/When c Next/Then d When/While e after a few minutes f As soon as/When Part 2 Article p39 1 a People who are roughly the same age as you. b Your opinion of family holidays; a description of a past family holiday c to entertain readers d quite informal; conversational in parts 2 Suggested best title: B – you want to know what was so bad about it. By comparison, A and C sound boring – you can guess the kind of thing the article will be about. 3 Suggested best first paragraph: A – the question involves readers immediately, encouraging them to think about their own family holidays. Although paragraph B starts with a question, it continues with a self-evident statement that no one could disagree with, and ends with what sounds like the most boring kind of holiday anyone could imagine. Paragraph C also includes unoriginal thoughts and ideas. The last sentence moves away from family holidays. If the rest of the article moves straight on to an ideal holiday, the writer will not have described a past family holiday. 4 Possible opening questions: My favourite season of the year   Is there anyone who does not prefer summer to all the other seasons?   Would you think I was mad if I said winter was my favourite season? My interesting hobby   Do you really think I have time for a hobby?   What would you say if I told you my hobby involved a snake? Caring for the environment   When was the last time your breathed fresh air in your city?   If you care about the environment, why do you travel everywhere by car? Listening Part 1 p42 1 A 2 C 3 C 4 B 5 Agreement: Absolutely! ​Exactly! ​That’s true.  ​ You’re right there. Disagreement: I can’t go along with that. ​ I don’t think so. That’s not the way I see it. Doubt: Do you really think so? ​ I’m not sure about that. 6 B Part 2 p45 2 1 members 2 farmers 3 eating 4 traditional 5 processed 4 1 class 2 heavy 3 lessons 4 came 5 could Listening Part 3 p47 Speaker 1 C Speaker 2 H Speaker 3 A Speaker 4 F Speaker 5 D Part 4 p49 1 1 What is Matt doing now? A He is in his last year at school. B He has just finished full-time education. C He is a part-time student. 2 What reason does Matt give for studying his three subjects? A They are his favourite subjects. B They are the choice of his parents. C They are the subjects he is most successful in. 3 What would Matt’s parents like him to do? A They want him to go to university. B They want him to start work. C They want him to do what makes him happy. 4 What does Matt say about physics? A It is his favourite subject. B He finds it rather boring. C It would help him to find work. 5 What does Matt say about being a music teacher? A He doesn’t like working with children. B He knows music is not a popular subject in school. C He doesn’t feel sufficiently qualified. 6 Why does Matt feel he needs to talk to his parents again? A He will need money from them in the future. B He values their advice and assistance. C He wants to show them that his is the right choice. 7 What attracts Matt to working as a volunteer? A It will help prepare him for the world of work. B It will give him more time to decide his future. C It will provide him with a source of income. 3 1 A ​ 2 C ​ 3 B ​ 4 C ​ 5 B ​ 6 A ​7 B Speaking Part 1 p51 1 and 2 Sample answers (exercise 1 answers underlined) c I usually go by bus, but if I’m late my father takes me in the car. d I really like maths, probably because I’m quite good at it. e Yes, I would, but I haven’t decided which university to apply to. f I’d really like to work with people; perhaps something like nursing. g I like spending time with my friends – going shopping or listening to music. h Yes, I play table tennis and tennis, and I’d like to learn to play squash. © Copyright Oxford University Press
  6. 6. Answer key Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools i Yes, I have two sisters and two brothers. I’m the youngest in the family. j I really enjoy it when we have meals together – especially if we can eat outside. 3 Best answers to examiner’s questions 1 2 Candidate 1’s answer is too detailed and becomes irrelevant. Candidate 3’s answer is too short. 2 3 Candidate 1’s answer begins okay but becomes less relevant. Candidate 2 makes no attempt to answer. 3 1 Candidate 2’s answer is too short, lacking enough detail. Candidate 3 doesn’t answer the question. 4 3 Candidate 1 avoids the question. Candidate 2’s answer is too short, lacking enough detail. 5 2 Candidate 1’s answer is too detailed and rambling. Candidate 3 doesn’t answer the question. Part 2 p52 1 Similarities People on beach Adults and children On holiday Relaxing Some people sitting Sandy beach You can see the sea Differences Clothes people are wearing Weather Activities 2 Suggested answers a  Ben only mentions differences between the photographs, not the similarities. b  Ben talks for less than a minute and seems to be struggling to keep talking towards the end. Part 3 p54 1 Students’ own answers 2 Suggested answers a Yes, they consider all five suggested ways of keeping fit. b Yes, in general. c  No, they don’t answer the actual question, which asks them to discuss what is best for teenagers rather than what they do personally to keep fit. d They talk for about the same length of time. e Yes, usually. 3 Phrases used to express an opinion: none. They only talk about personal experiences, not what their opinions are. Phrases used to invite a partner’s response: What about you? / Do you do that? / How about you? / … don’t you agree? / What about you? Part 4 p55 1 Possible notes on the examiner’s questions. 2 everyday jobs – practical? 3 lot of exercise – bad? 4 exercise – regular or occasional? 5 diet or exercise – more important? 6 exercise must be painful? 2 Students’ own answers 3 Students’ own answers 4 In the first conversation, both candidates give explanations using these phrases: because team sports … / Let me explain. / My point is, … / That’s because … In the second conversation, Monica gives explanations using these phrases: For one thing, … / I mean, … Jonathan implies but does not state reasons or explanations. 5 Students’ own answers Reading and Use of English Part 1 p57 1 a pros b close c tall d clock e top; closed f over; driving g minds h rainy i minute j good 3 a air b drop c escape d thoughts e order f food g print h feet i visit j talk 4 1 C 2 A 3 D 4 A 5 C 6 B 7 D 8 B 5 1 D 2 C 3 A 4 D 5 B 6 C 7 A 8 D Part 2 p60 1 a part b came c mind d favour e sight f common g granted h by i blue j leg 2 a ✗ on the spur of the moment b ✓ c ✗ If I were in your shoes d ✗ live in fear of e ✗ he fell asleep f ✗ in your own words g ✓ h ✓ i ✗ draw your attention to j ✗ Leave me alone 3 a by and large b ins and outs c law and order d loud and clear e neat and tidy f odds and ends g peace and quiet h sick and tired i ups and downs j wear and tear 4 1 granted 2 any 3 loud 4 on ANSWER KEY © Copyright Oxford University Press
  7. 7. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools 5 over 6 quiet 7 to 8 for Part 3 p63 1 A nouns: -ness / -ship / - ion / -hood / -ance / -ment B adjectives: -able / -ible / -ish / -ful / -less / -ant C verbs: -ize / -ify / -ate / -en 2 (Words in bold have had spelling changes.) appearANCE ​ childHOOD/childISH/childLESS ​ friendSHIP/friendLESS ​ goodNESS ​ governMENT ​ hesitatION/hesitANCE/hesitANT ​ boyHOOD/boyISH ​ breakABLE ​ horrIBLE ​ painFUL/painLESS ​ pleasANT ​ useFUL/useLESS ​ activATE ​ electrIFY ​ realIZE ​ shortNESS/shortISH/shortEN 3 dis- disable disadvantage ​ dishonest il- illegal ​illogical im- impatient ​improbable in- inconvenient ​informal ir- irregular irrelevant mis- misspell misunderstand un- unable ​unnecessary 4 a growing b completely c disagreements d illegal e booking f tourism g belongings h collection Part 4 p65 1 a in order to be b so she can’t have gone c as soon as I heard d go out until he had e better singer than anyone f is no point in running 2 1 b The phrase in case is followed by a clause with a main verb. In case of is usually followed by a noun: in case of emergencies. 2 b Even is only used with though, not although. Although means the same as even though. 3 a Best is a superlative and needs to be used with the definite article, the. 4 a Be likely to + infinitive refers to the future but is normally used with a present simple verb. 5 a The verb form to have something done means to get or ask someone to do something for you. I have cut my hair means I have cut it myself and makes no sense with I pay someone. 6 b The first answer includes two negatives: doesn’t and no. With no the construction is: I have no objection to… With doesn’t the construction is: John doesn’t have any objection to working late. John doesn’t have any objection to me / my working late. Writing Part 2 Review p75 2 a It’s only been open for about six months, but all my friends buy things there. They always have a selection of the latest fashions. b They serve a great range of coffees. It’s on the ground floor of our local supermarket. c You can book Internet access in advance. They have a fantastic reference section. d I found several really useful sites. The site is easy to use – you just type your question into the search box. e The opening scene is an exciting car chase. The characters were very convincing. f It’s not like a huge stadium or arena – it’s more like a medium-sized club. Their programme includes everything from punk to jazz. 3 and 4 Facts a Everyone in the audience found it very funny. f It took me over two days to play. g It’s north of the river, not far from the park entrance. h It’s on the top floor of the building, and the day I went the lift wasn’t working. j The changing rooms are very small. l The whole place is clean and tidy. Opinions (with Positive (P) or Negative (N)) b I found the whole experience disappointing. N c I know it’s very popular, but it isn’t really my idea of value for money. N d I must admit, it was much better than I had expected. P e I’d say it’s fairly expensive – especially for students. N i One of the best games I’ve played for a long time. P k The service is excellent. P m I’d thoroughly recommend this to everyone I know. P 5 Suggested paragraph plan: Para 1  Introduction: Name and appearance of the website / What subjects it covers Para 2  Describe how easy it is to use. Are there any special points to be aware of? Para 3  A brief description of what you have referred to it for. Para 4  Conclusion: Your recommendation – include negative and positive points. Part 2 Set text p77 2 Possible paragraph plans for the three questions: A Para 1 Introduction: Name the characters. Give reasons for your choice. Para 2 Describe the characters and say what the main differences between them are. Para 3 Say how their relationship starts, changes and ends. Para 4 Conclusion: Say how the change in the relationship affects the plot of the novel. © Copyright Oxford University Press
  8. 8. Answer key Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools B Para 1 Introduction: Name the theme. Give a reason for your choice. Para 2 The way the theme develops. Why you find it interesting. Para 3 Say whether the theme is still relevant today. Para 4 Conclusion: Summarize main ideas. Make a general comment about why we still study long- dead writers. C Para 1 Introduction: Events you have chosen. Why are they are important in the story. Para 2 Describe the events and say how they are linked. Para 3 Describe how the events affect the main characters. Para 4 Conclusion: Describe how you reacted personally to the events. 3 A Essay The first event I’ve chosen is Mike’s discovery of the gold coins. This happens early in the book and is a shock to everyone. At first they’re very happy because the family is very poor. Their discovery means they’ll be able to sell the coins and buy things they need. The moment when the family realize that the coins are fake is my second key event. B Essay I imagine that everyone in the world knows something about Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. They probably believe that the main theme is love. My view is a little different. In my opinion the most important theme is fate. We know from the beginning of the play that fate controls their lives and their future. C Article As far as I’m concerned, the most interesting characters in this novel are Laura and Matt. This is mainly because they seem so perfect for each other when they meet. They have similar interests but quite different personalities. Laura is rather shy whereas Matt is outgoing, the sort of person who loves parties. ANSWER KEY © Copyright Oxford University Press
  9. 9. Answer key Answer key for Practice Tests 1–6 ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools © Copyright Oxford University Press
  10. 10. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools PRACTICE TEST ANSWER KEY Practice Test 1 Reading and Use of English Part 1 p11 0 B familiar Familiar takes the preposition with. Conscious and aware take of. Knowledgeable takes the preposition about. 1 C played To play a part means to act a role in a film or play. Perform and appear are used with a play: to perform (in)/appear in a play. 2 A interested be interested + in something. The other adjectives are followed by different prepositions: inspired by; attracted to; enthusiastic about. 3 D role A professional role means a part in a play for which she was paid. Task is a specific skill or job. Career is a person’s sequence of jobs lasting many years. Character is a person in a book, film or play. In this context, the character is Hermione, not Emma Watson. 4 B over The correct phrase is all over the world. 5 C up Give up means to stop doing something. None of the alternatives make any sense followed by her education: give in + to means to surrender or agree to something you don’t believe in; give out means to distribute; give off means to produce a smell, heat or light. 6 A leaving The correct phrase, to leave school, means to come to the end of school education. Abandon has a more negative meaning of leave, for example to abandon a child/house/sinking ship, etc. 7 D continued Continue is followed by to + infinitive. Keep has a similar meaning, but is followed by -ing or on + -ing. 8 C involved Be involved is followed by in and means to take part in/be part of (neutral meaning). Be implicated is also followed by in, but has a more negative meaning. For example, be implicated in a crime. Part 2 p13 0 are The plural verb are is needed here as the subject of the relative clause is which, referring back to the plural noun phrase Harlequin shrimps. 9 from / to From or to are the correct prepositions after the adjective different (different + than is American English). 10 with With is the correct preposition in phrases like these. Other examples: a shirt with red stripes; a room with blue walls. 11 both Both here refers to the left and right sides of the shrimp’s body. 12 have Have is used with physical characteristics. Other examples: he has long legs; she has short hair. 13 which The relative pronoun which refers back to the word claw and completes this non-defining relative clause. 14 They The subject pronoun They refers to the topic of the whole text: harlequin shrimps. 15 of The preposition of is used to show the relationship between a general category and the thing which is part of this category. 16 because Because of is a prepositional phrase, which introduces a reason and is usually followed by a noun or noun phrase. Part 3 p16 0 photographer The noun form referring to a person’s job is needed following I’m. 17 basic The adjective form is needed to describe a box camera (a simple type of camera). 18 simply An adverb is needed to describe how you pointed the camera. 19 disappointed An adjective is needed to describe how the writer felt about some of the photos. 20 unclear An adjective with a negative meaning is needed. The prefix un- gives this meaning. 21 comparison A noun is needed to complete the common phrase: in comparison with. 22 effective An adjective is needed to describe the process. 23 successful An adjective is needed is describe ones, referring to some of the photos. 24 satisfying An adjective is needed to complete the phrase as … as, describing the experience of taking photos. Part 4 p19 0 can’t get used to The phrase get used to means become accustomed to/adjust to. The negative form can’t is needed to convey the meaning of the phrase in the first sentence: impossible to adjust to. 25 have not/haven’t seen you since The simple past saw in The last time I saw becomes the negative form of the present perfect following the word since in the second sentence. 26 such a boring film So boring in the first sentence follows the noun it refers to (film). When such precedes a singular noun, it is followed by the indefinite article a/an. 27 wish I had not/hadn’t When referring to a past regret (regret + -ing), the verb wish is followed by a negative past perfect form of the verb. 28 was unexpectedly cold The comparative form colder in the first sentence is unnecessary in the second sentence because of the adverb unexpectedly. 29 advised Ben not to leave/against leaving The use of if I were you in the first sentence indicates that the speaker is giving a piece of advice. The verb advise is followed by someone (not) to do something or someone against doing something. 30 have just been informed (that) The second sentence is a passive form, starting with I (the person referred to as me in the first sentence). Informed is the past participle, which carries the meaning of told in the first sentence. Part 5 p22 31 B Paragraph 1 The writer states: they would rather stay at home and do things indoors than go out and experience real-life adventures. The phrase would rather shows preference, and at home is contrasted with go out. A The fact that parents support their choice (encourage in the first paragraph) is true, but is additional information. © Copyright Oxford University Press
  11. 11. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools C This answer is too extreme. The text does not say teenagers have no interest. D This answer may also be true, but is another additional point and only applies to some teenagers (more than half were actually afraid of trying new experiences). 32 D Paragraph 2 Apparently usually precedes a statement expressing some uncertainty. This may be because you doubt the truth of something or you are passing on information you have not discovered for yourself. A The speaker may be surprised, but the word apparently does not convey this. B The word knows expresses certainty, whereas apparently implies lack of certainty. C Apparently indicates that this is not something which the writer believes. 33 A Paragraph 3 The writer states: To members of older generations, these findings are worrying because it means that young people increasingly rely on virtual reality. The phrasal verb rely on means the same as dependent on; virtual reality is a synonym for things that are unreal. B There is no information given about how the older generations perceive young people enjoying their real-life experiences. C The phrase increasingly rely on suggests that interests are changing, but that young people are not only interested in virtual reality. D Rock climbing is just one example of an outdoor activity which some teenagers might enjoy. 34 B Paragraph 4 The writer states: Forty or fifty years ago, children were expected to spend more of their free time outside – often engaged in activities of which their parents were completely ignorant. The phrase completely ignorant means to not know what someone is doing. A The text says they spent more of their free time outside, not all of their time. C The text only says today’s teenagers have many more indoor activities, not that there were no indoor activities in the past. D The existence of new technology does not explain this difference. (It would be easy to blame technological advances for this development.) 35 A Paragraph 5 The writer states: Many of the adults surveyed said they thought today’s youth were more protected than they were when they were growing up. He supports this statement with evidence of parental control. B The writer states that many young people would be … prepared to try real experiences if they could watch videos … but does not say that videos are the reason why they stay indoors. C The writer states: It is not clear whether adults believe the world is more dangerous than it used to be. There is no reference to this being without doubt. D The writer states: It is not clear … whether they do not trust today’s youngsters to look after themselves. The phrase not clear means that the idea is not necessarily true. 36 B Final paragraph Dr Aaron Balik states: There is nothing in the digital world, even virtual reality, that can match the complex and multi- sensory experiences of a real-life situation. A This is the opposite of what Dr Balik says. C Dr Balik makes no reference to the enjoyment of either digital or real-life experiences. D The phrase nothing can match, meaning something doesn’t compare to another thing, shows that there is not equal value in the experiences. Part 6 p26 37 G This sentence expands on the previous sentence in paragraph 2. The following sentence, starting with Similarly, adds another point of comparison. 38 C The first sentence of paragraph 3 focuses on plastic. Sentence C, starting with However, points out that it is not only plastic – the chemicals added to most plastics are also dangerous. 39 E Most of this refers back to packaging of foodstuffs, drinks and other consumer goods in the previous sentence. The following sentence, In fact, there are well-publicized solutions, which would go some way towards solving the problem, continues the idea introduced in sentence E: we cannot go on indefinitely with this practice. 40 B Good examples of this refers back to most plastic packaging in the previous sentence of the text. In the following sentence of the text, refunds on returned plastic bottles, and many supermarkets now charge shoppers for plastic bags refers back to drinks bottles and plastic shopping bags. 41 A Campaigns to encourage green behaviour refers back to the work of Environmental organizations in the previous sentence. The sentence following the gap says what more needs to happen: We also need to convince governments and businesses to reduce the production and use of plastics for superficial applications. 42 F Secondly, shows sequencing of ideas and relates to Firstly, in the sentence before the gap. Part 7 p30 43 C Kadir says: The course organizers and managers were fantastic – they couldn’t have done more to make us feel at home. 44 D Bogdana says: all the lectures and discussion sessions were in English. 45 A Ambroos says: I didn’t get much sleep while I was there – I arrived home very tired! 46 E Pirkko says: I love the outdoor life, so I spent some of my free time swimming in the lake and walking. 47 D Bogdana refers to the charming city with narrow streets and a romantic castle. 48 A Ambroos says: In addition to the course itself, which consisted of lectures and discussions on politics and economics, there were many optional activities to choose from. 49 E Pirkko says: I would definitely suggest this programme of study would be ideal for other students who have never left their own country before. 50 C Kadir says the course enabled him to discover a new culture. 51 B Branca says: I … just looked around the city taking in the sights. 52 B Branca says: you make strong friendships that will hopefully last for ever. © Copyright Oxford University Press
  12. 12. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools Writing Part 1 p34 The answer should address these points: Content The essay should give reasons to support the viewpoint that young people do not get enough exercise. The essay should consider a variety of reasons for the situation, including those given in the notes. Communicative achievement The answer should be in essay format, using neutral or formal register. Organization Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate. Language There should be level-appropriate vocabulary and use of functional language to express opinion, give reasons, make additional points, evaluate, and conclude. Sample answer In an increasingly busy world, health and fitness is more important than ever, particularly for young people. However, modern lifestyles often make it difficult for them to get as much exercise as they need. The purpose of this essay is to explain why this is the case. Firstly, there is more pressure on young people today to study. Students spend a significant amount of time sitting down, rather than moving around. Also, academic subjects are often prioritized over physical education. Another factor is that when young people have free time, they enjoy playing computer games. Not only does this mean that they are mostly sitting down, but it may also make going outside to exercise less appealing. Finally, many towns and cities lack safe and clean spaces to play games outside. This means that parents may be unwilling to let their teenagers go out alone after school. To conclude, young people’s lifestyles often prevent them from getting enough physical exercise. It is essential that all members of society work together to prioritise health and fitness in young people’s lives. (179 words) Examiner’s commentary Content The candidate answers the question very competently, detailing a variety of reasons why young people do not get enough exercise. The target reader would be fully informed regarding the writer’s views and subject matter. Communicative achievement The essay is well written, using the conventions of the task to communicate straightforward ideas clearly. The language remains formal throughout the essay. The topic is addressed directly and in an appropriate way. Organization The candidate uses a variety of linking words and phrases to connect the ideas of the essay and to help it to flow (however …, firstly …, not only …, but also …, this means that …). Language There is a wide range of grammatical phrases and vocabulary used with a good degree of control (e.g. spend a significant amount of time …, are often prioritized over …, unwilling to let …). Part 2 p41 Question 2 Content The story should begin with the sentence provided in the rubric. It should also include a tent and a misunderstanding. Communicative achievement The task should be written in a story format, using neutral language. Organization Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate. Language Narrative tenses and descriptive language should be used. Sample answer Peter picked up his heavy backpack and set off towards the forest. He was meeting his friends at four o’clock, and they were going to camp overnight. He waited impatiently at the entrance to the forest. His mobile phone had no signal, and there was no sign of his friends. He was sure they had said to meet here. It was getting dark and cold. All he can do was try to put up his tent. He’d never put up a tent before, so he tied some rope between two trees, and tried to hang the tent over it. The wind grew stronger and it started to rain. Meanwhile, Peter was starting to feel fed up. He lay down on the wet ground, and somehow fell asleep. He woke to bright sunlight and the sound of his friends’ voices. ‘Peter, what are you doing here? We were calling you all evening!’ said Andrew. It turns out that he was suppose to meet them at Andrew’s house. In the end, the weather had put them off, and so they had decided to camp out in the living room! (187 words) Examiner’s commentary Content This is a very competent attempt at writing a story. The candidate uses the sentence provided and is able to create a convincing story from it. They have successfully incorporated the elements briefed: a tent and a misunderstanding. Communicative achievement The register is consistent with a story. The target reader’s attention would be held throughout. Organization The candidate has organized the story into clear paragraphs and made use of some linking words (meanwhile …, in the end …). Language The candidate has used a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures with good control. There are a couple of non-impeding errors (all he can do was …, he was suppose to …); however, this do not affect communication. Question 3 Content The email should respond to the friend’s question regarding a place to visit for a day trip. It should give information about what there is to do at the chosen attraction. Communicative achievement The task should be written in email format, with informal language. Organization Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate. Language Making a suggestion, giving opinions, making recommendations, giving details. Sample answer Hi Anna, Thanks for your email. I’m looking forward to seeing you too! There are quite a few good places nearby for your day trip, but the most interesting is the Grand Palace. It’s on the edges of the city, and there is a regular bus service there from the centre. You can buy a day ticket which lets you go to the palace as well as the gardens. The palace is really magnificent! I highly recommend paying for a guided tour, as you learn so much about the history of the © Copyright Oxford University Press
  13. 13. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools building. When I visited, our guide also pointed out the famous artworks and told us tales of the people who lived there. After you saw the palace, you must explore the beautiful gardens. If the weather’s nice, you should take a picnic and hire a boat on the lake. If you have time at the end of the day, don’t miss the fireworks. The best place is watch them is from the bridge. You can see the display with the palace lit up. See you soon. From, (Name) (180 words) Examiner’s commentary Content The candidate follows the instructions and gives the target reader a full description of the recommended day trip. All the content is relevant to the task. Communicative achievement The register is consistently appropriate for an email to a friend. The email would leave a positive impression on the target reader. Organization The email is organized into paragraphs and is coherent. Cohesive devices (when, if) are used to link ideas in the email. Language The candidate uses a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures with a good degree of control. They also successfully use functional language to make suggestions/recommendations (You can …, I highly recommend …, you must …). There are some errors (on the edges of the city …, After you saw …), but these do not impede communication. Question 4 Content The review should begin with a brief description of the film, mentioning information such as the setting, subject and characters. The candidate should then relate the film to an issue affecting young people. It should end with a summary of why the candidate recommends the film to young people. Communicative achievement Neutral or informal style. Target readers are newspaper readers. Organization Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate. Language Describing, recommending, giving opinions, giving reasons. Sample answer One of my favourite films is an animation called ‘Not Long Ago’. It is the story of a lady in her twenties called Fumi who is working in an office in the city, and is generally dissatisfied with her life. She decides to go to stay with her family in the countryside, who run a farm. Being back in nature and with her relatives reminds her of her childhood. She recalls both happy and sad memories from when she was ten years old, which causes her to think about what is truly important to her. Although the story is quite simple and not very dramatic, it is still a very moving film. I felt that this film is particularly relevant to young people as it explores the difficulty many of us have in leaving behind our childhood and beginning our adult lives. It also shows the importance of our childhood dreams and how they influence us even when we become adults. For me, it summed up the feeling that me and many of my friends feel as we approach our graduation from school. (183 words) Examiner’s commentary Content The candidate has followed the instructions and fully informed the reader of their film choice and reasoning. Communicative achievement The candidate uses the conventions of the task with considerable flexibility and style. The target reader’s attention is held throughout. Organization The text is well organized into paragraphs and is consistently coherent. A range of linking words and cohesive devices is employed (although, it also …, for me …). Language The candidate uses a range of vocabulary effectively and precisely. They use a range of simple and also complex grammatical forms with control and flexibility. Question 5 Content The article should be based on the set text that the candidate has studied. It should focus on first impressions of one of the characters in their set text. Communicative achievement The answer should be in article format, using neutral or formal register. Organization Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate. Language There should be level-appropriate vocabulary and use of functional language to express opinion, give reasons, make additional points, evaluate and conclude. Sample answer The issue of first impressions is particularly relevant to the novel Pride and Prejudice. One of the main developments in the story is how Elizabeth Bennet’s opinion of a rich gentleman, Mr Darcy, changes over time. In this article, I will discuss my impressions of Elizabeth. When we are first introduced to Elizabeth, it is clear that she is witty and intelligent. She is not afraid to say how she feels, even when it causes others to have a bad opinion of her; for example, she refuses to dance with Mr Darcy. Although she realizes that the Bingley sisters are insulting her and her family, it does not bother her. As the story continues, Elizabeth’s actions in the story only seem to support my initial beliefs about her. The fact that she rejects Mr Collins’ offer of marriage demonstrates the strength of her belief that a woman should marry for love. This is even more impressive when we take the customs and traditions of the time into account. I believe it was Jane Austen’s aim to give her readers this example of a strong woman. (185 words) Examiner’s commentary Content The candidate has followed the instructions and fully answered the question about the first impressions of one of the characters. The article expands on the ideas, giving examples from the book. Communicative achievement The candidate uses the conventions of the task with considerable flexibility and style. The target reader’s attention is held throughout. Organization The text is coherent and is well organized into paragraphs. A range of linking words and cohesive devices is employed (The fact that …, This …). Language The candidate uses a range of vocabulary and grammatical forms with a good degree of control. Functional language to express opinions is employed effectively (it is clear that …, this is even more impressive …, I believe …). © Copyright Oxford University Press
  14. 14. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools Listening Part 1 p44 1 A The boy says I thought the American was faster and more powerful, and the girl says That’s true. B The girl thinks it was bad luck that the player slipped, while the boy disagrees: I can see why you think that, but it was still a mistake. C The boy thinks the American deserved to win, but the girl disagrees. 2 A The girl says: Recordings are great. B The girl says that the concert she attended was loud, and that you can turn the volume up at home. She doesn’t make any critical comments about the volume. C The girl says recordings can be exciting but can’t match the thrill of the real thing. 3 B The reporter says hunting threatens the tiger still more [than the destruction of their habitat, and explains: In some places, parts of the tiger are used to make medicines … . A The reporter says hunting threatens the tiger still more [than the destruction of their habitat]. C The reporter says that tiger hunting is dangerous. He doesn’t mention this as a reason people kill tigers. 4 C The teacher says the best way to do that [to make an essay interesting] is to note down your ideas before you put pen to paper. A The teacher talks about putting events in order, and says this is the easiest thing, but recommends changing the order to make the essay more interesting. B The teacher says you might begin by describing … how you felt at the end of the day, but he doesn’t advise doing this. The modal might suggests possibility. 5 B The brother says I really need eight hours’ sleep and later says We all need the same amount [of sleep]. A The boy doesn’t mention if he would feel better or not on less sleep. C It’s the boy’s sister who says that girls just don’t need as much sleep as boys. The boy disagrees, saying That’s stupid. 6 B The boy says: but now I think I’d find it boring to lie around on the beach every day. A The boy talks enthusiastically about the things he did because of the rain, but does not say he liked the rain itself. C The boy says that just ordering a coffee helped me feel more confident, but not that his French improved a lot. 7 C The newsreader says: They could only ask their neighbours to … tell them if she turned up. If something turns up, then it is found. A There is no mention of neighbours looking after the cat. B The family move to a new home, but the cat didn’t go with them. There is no mention of finding the cat a new home. 8 A The pianist says that his own music teacher was good, but he tried too hard. Most music teachers do. Better to let the music speak for itself. B The pianist thought of playing music as a hobby, and didn’t expect to be making money from it. C The pianist mentions being forced to do art, but makes no mention of compulsory music lessons. Part 2 p46 9 bread The sentence requires a noun as its object. Jason says that he first thought of bread but he decided it was just too boring. 10 alert The use of the verb felt and adverb less shows we need an adjective. Jason says that on his way to school, he wasn’t as alert as usual. 11 dad The possessive suggests a noun will follow. Jason says: my dad doesn’t sleep well if he drinks it late at night. 12 milk The sentence requires an indirect object. Jason says: The most basic choice we make is between white and black … I usually prefer white coffee. Usually and most of the time are synonyms. 13 depression A noun is required to complete the phrase the risk of. Jason says: some recent studies say that if you drink coffee, you might be less likely to suffer from depression. 14 physical As the gap is before a noun, an adjective is required. Jason says: I’m not sure if coffee increases my physical energy. 15 Yemen The name of a country is required. Jason says: it seems to have been in Yemen … that people began to roast and brew coffee beans in the way we do today. The phrase it seems means probably. 16 monk The indefinite article indicates that a noun is required. Jason talks of a monk to whom he [the farmer] passed on the news [about coffee beans], and says: it was he who first boiled the dried berries to make a drink from them. 17 1652 A date is required. Jason says: England’s first coffee house opened in 1652. 18 relax A verb is required to complete the structure in order to, which means for the purpose of doing something. Jason says that King Charles II argued that people went to coffee houses in order to relax. Part 3 p48 19 D The speaker says: But me, I love visiting new places. New places is a synonym for somewhere you have never been before. 20 A The speaker says: as far as I’m concerned, the weather can do what it likes. If something does what it likes, you are not bothered or concerned by it. 21 C The speaker says: I know most people love going away, but I always find more interesting things to do at home. 22 H The speaker says: the best part of the holiday was the return journey. The return journey is a synonym for on the way home. 23 F The speaker says: I like to see them [the sights] through my own eyes, without having a guidebook to tell me what to do. B, D and G are not used. Part 4 p50 24 B Sophie says: What got me into it was seeing chess problems in the newspaper. A Sophie mentions starting a chess club at school, but says: that wasn’t where I started, either. C Sophie talks about learning the rules of chess online. 25 A Sophie says My suspicion is that some people, when they’re losing, look for help on the computer. There are websites which recommend moves for you. B Sophie mentions being overconfident, but she doesn’t really think this was the reason she lost. © Copyright Oxford University Press
  15. 15. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools C Sophie mentions that opponents may not have been concentrating at first, but she doesn’t really think this was the reason she lost. 26 C Sophie says: I lost some of my early [face-to-face] games – against people I really should have beaten – because I just wasn’t used to it. A Sophie mentions the clock making a difference, but not that it distracted her. B Sophie doesn’t comment on what her opponent looked like or whether it distracted her. 27 A Sophie says: just as I was on the verge of victory, I made a stupid move, … the game is drawn. B Sophie mentions her opponent being shocked that she was better than him, not that she was amazed. C Sophie says that her opponent was lucky because she made a poor move, not that he made a lucky move. 28 C Sophie says that, when she started secondary school, not many of the students even knew the rules and, at first, there was very little interest. A Sophie says there was very little interest, meaning nobody was eager to learn the game. B Sophie says that our numbers have increased a lot but this does not refer to when Sophie started secondary school. 29 B Sophie says: It’s easy to weaken one player slightly in order to make the game more competitive. A Sophie says not many in school would want to play me on equal terms, but doesn’t say that no one will. C Sophie mentions that she doesn’t do it to show off, meaning that she isn’t boasting about her ability. 30 A Sophie says (of becoming a grandmaster): Of course, that would be very difficult, but I think it could happen. B Sophie says: I’m still way short of the ability of the best in the world. This means that top players are much better than her. C Sophie says she is improving all the time. Practice Test 2 Reading and Use of English Part 1 p59 0 D fact The correct phrase is a fact of life, which means something accepted as true about the world. The other options do not make recognizable phrases. 1 C quality The collocation air quality means how good or bad the air is for breathing. The other options would work with the structure the … of the air. 2 A check Check a forecast means listen to it and think about what it means. Assess and test make no sense in this context, as they mean to evaluate. Listen must be followed by the preposition to. 3 D attention The correct phrase is pay attention to meaning to take notice of. 4 B unlikely If something is unlikely to happen, it means it is improbable that it will happen. The other options have similar meanings, but are not followed by infinitives of purpose. 5 C predict To predict something means to say what you think will happen in the future. Guess is too informal in this context. Decide would suggest the experts cause the pollution. 6 D avoid In this context, avoid means not do. Block and escape have a stronger, often negative meaning. Prevent is used about other people, not yourself. I avoid doing something (myself), but I prevented him from doing something. 7 A harmful A harmful level of something is the level that causes a physical problem. Hurtful and destructive are often used with behaviour. 8 B traffic An uncountable noun is required here after high volumes of. Traffic means the same as vehicles, but the correct phrase would be number of vehicles. In English, circulation usually relates to blood. Part 2 p62 0 the The name of the planet Earth is normally preceded by the definite article the. The uncountable noun earth means soil – the substance that plants grow in. 9 been Been completes the present perfect passive form of the verb visit. 10 of The preposition of is used to show the relationship between a general category and the thing which is part of this category. 11 a The indefinite article is needed here. The space inside the International Space Station (ISS) is just one of many restricted living spaces. 12 go The phrase to go wrong means to fail, stop working, break down. 13 is The singular verb is follows the noun cooperation earlier in the sentence, and is needed before the adjective. 14 through The phrase to go through a process such as training means to undergo or experience. 15 with To cope with something means to deal with something successfully. 16 where The relative pronoun where introduces the relative clause which finishes the text and refers back to an isolated room. Part 3 p64 0 famous The adjective form is needed to describe painters in the superlative phrase, the most famous painters. 17 twentieth The adjective form is needed to describe which century is being referred to. 18 variety The noun form is needed to follow the adjective wide. 19 illness The noun form is needed as the subject of this sentence. 20 creative The adjective form is needed to describe ideas. 21 original The adjective form is needed to describe works of art. 22 exhibition The noun form is needed, following the indefinite article an. 23 collections The plural noun form is needed, following the adjectives public and private. 24 visitors The plural noun form is needed, following half a million and preceding the relative pronoun who. Part 4 p67 0 not looking forward to going If someone is not looking forward to doing something, it means they don’t want to do it. The phrasal verb: to look forward to is followed by the -ing form. © Copyright Oxford University Press
  16. 16. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools 25 would rather you did not/didn’t Would rather someone + verb in the simple past form means the same as prefer someone not to do something. 26 even though I had not/hadn’t/I’d not The participle phrase despite not having had changes to even though + a clause in the past perfect negative: even though I hadn’t had. 27 is too young The negative phrase not old enough changes to the affirmative too young. 28 I remind her of Remind someone of someone means to make someone think of someone because they are similar in some way. 29 need not/needn’t have taken The past modal form needn’t have taken means you did something, but it wasn’t necessary. 30 had to get home by To get somewhere by a time means to be there at or before that time. Part 5 p68 31 B Paragraph 1 To be set free is often used about people or animals being released from captivity. It is appropriate here, because the girls would probably have felt they were in captivity for most of their stay in Paris. A This option suggests a decision has been made by someone else. C This option implies that the students were being forced rather than permitted to go somewhere. D There is no mention of whether this is true or not. 32 D Paragraph 2 The writer states that the girls were not used to the noise and bustle of city life. They’d spent the odd day in London or Manchester before, but always with their parents. Therefore they had been supervised. A The writer states that the girls had been given a street plan, so they knew where to go. B The writer states: they knew enough about the ticket system and the different lines and their directions. C The writer says the girls were not used to the noise and bustle, not that it was too noisy for them. 33 C Paragraph 3 The writer states: They were slightly surprised when the waiter replied in fluent English, but they weren’t upset. Slightly surprised suggests it wasn’t too important. A The waiter answered in English, so he must have understood them. B The girls weren’t upset, suggesting that they weren’t offended by the waiter’s behaviour. D They were only slightly surprised. Astonished means very surprised. 34 A Paragraph 4 The writer states that the girls went to the department store to choose presents to buy for their mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters. B The girls bought tourist T-shirts rather than fashion items. C The girls are described as buying presents for others, not themselves. D Alexis says Let’s do our shopping now. This suggests that their focus was on buying, not just looking. 35 C Paragraph 5 The writer states: they didn’t want to spend any more money, suggesting they had already spent enough. A We don’t know whether they could afford it, only that they didn’t want to spend more money. B There is no mention of what the time was at this point. D The writer states: Jo didn’t have a head for heights, meaning she was afraid of high places, but this isn’t the reason they didn’t go. 36 B Paragraph 6 Becky says: I think we’re going the wrong way. A The girls didn’t travel on the wrong line – they took the right line in the wrong direction. C The girls caught a train, but one going in the wrong direction, D The main problem was that they were travelling in the wrong direction; we are not told that the train didn’t stop at their station. Part 6 p70 37 E This develops the idea expressed in the previous sentence. The sentence which follows says more about why girls feel these pressures: There is also evidence that parents demand higher standards of behaviour and performance from their daughters than from their sons. 38 A The idea of competition between girls occurs in the sentence before the gap. The sentence which follows mentions examples of bullying: cruel treatment they receive online. 39 G This understanding refers back to the word understand in the previous sentence. The six … characteristics mentioned at the end of sentence G are listed in the sentence which follows: the need for independence, the desire to rebel, close friendships, planning for the future, emotional disturbance, and taking responsibility for themselves. 40 D Not only this builds on the idea expressed in the previous sentence: The psychologist reassures parents by telling them that their daughters’ difficult behaviour is completely normal. 41 C She refers back to the psychologist in the previous sentence. The sentence which follows the gap gives a particular example of a parent–teenage girl relationship. 42 F They refers back to Most experts, the subject of the previous sentence. The word this in the sentence after the gap refers to the suggestion that parents should try to keep track of their daughters’ online activity. Part 7 p72 43 B Paul says: I had no idea whether I’d enjoy it or not, so I bought an inexpensive machine. 44 C Ed says: As a young boy, I remember reading a story about a robbery that took place in our town … As soon as I got my first metal detector, I hunted in this place. 45 D Sally says: My dad had told me that one day I would find a precious gold coin. Well, amazingly, not only did I find one, but I found more: three gold coins, five silver ones and various other old artefacts. 46 C Ed says: … several townspeople suggested a particular site where the box might have been buried. 47 A Megan says: I certainly won’t stop hunting; perhaps I’ll be luckier next time. 48 C Ed says: The thief was arrested … he’d buried the cash box and wouldn’t say where it was. … As soon as I got my first metal detector, I hunted in this place … 49 D Sally says: You can be sure I’ll go on hunting there. © Copyright Oxford University Press
  17. 17. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools 50 A Megan says: I’d taken the metal detector I’d been given as a birthday present 51 B Paul refers to metal detecting as a profitable hobby. 52 A Megan says she found some bottle tops buried in the sand, and a tent pole. These are worthless objects. Writing Part 1 p74 The answer should address these points: Content The essay should give an opinion on whether it is a good or a bad idea for robots to do many of the jobs currently done by humans. The essay should consider a variety of reasons for the situation, including those given in the notes. Communicative achievement The answer should be in an essay format with neutral or formal language. The target reader is a class teacher. Organization Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate. The essay should either provide an opinion in paragraph 1 and then present arguments to support this opinion OR consider both sides of the argument before giving an opinion in the final paragraph. Language There should be level-appropriate vocabulary and use of functional language to describe, express opinion, give reasons, express contrast, make additional points, evaluate, and conclude. Sample answer We hear the word ‘robot’ more than we used to. In the past, robots were machines that looked like small humans. Commentators now think that robots will soon do many of the jobs done by humans. Robots have done some jobs for many years, for example in car factories. They are now starting to do other jobs, for example, in hospitals where they can check patients and even decide their treatment. In future, it is likely that robots will do more everyday jobs, for example in food production and building. The public is reacting in different ways to this development. Some think that it would be good for robots to do more jobs because this will give humans more free time. There are others, however, who believe that it could be dangerous if robots start thinking for themselves. I am sure that robots will do more human jobs, but I believe they should only do unpleasant or difficult work. They must not make too many people redundant or start to control humans. (172 words) Examiner’s commentary Content The candidate answers the question very competently. All the content points are addressed and fully expanded. Register and language use is consistently appropriate. Communicative achievement The essay is very well written, using the conventions of the task effectively to hold the target reader’s attention. The language is neutral throughout and the topic is treated in an appropriate way. Balanced views and opinions are given in a well-argued manner. Interesting ideas – for example, the danger of robots controlling humans – are mentioned briefly. Organization The text is well organized, and a range of simple cohesive devices is used. Paragraphing is appropriate, although the final paragraph where the writer expresses their own opinion is a little brief. Language Language is well controlled, and a range of structures and vocabulary is used. Some awareness of less common lexical items is evident – for example, reacting, redundant. Part 2 p79 Question 2 Content The email should be about a song or piece of music that the writer likes or dislikes, with reasons given for their choice. Communicative achievement Informal language. Email format. Suitable for an English-speaking penfriend. Organization Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate. Language Describing, explaining, giving reasons. Sample answer Hi Sam, Good to hear from you. Your class project sounds great! I’m sure you’ll get some really interesting replies. I’ve decided to tell you about a piece of music that I really love. It’s called The Stranger from Limoise and it’s a kind of slow French folk tune that I first heard when I was on holiday in France. Since then, I’ve managed to find a recording of it. So, why do I like it? There are several reasons, but the main one is the melody which is sad and happy at the same time. Secondly, whenever I hear it it reminds me of that fantastic French holiday and takes me back to the square in a sleepy little village in the middle of the French countryside, when we saw people dancing to this tune. It was a magic sight which I’ll never forget. Good luck with your project. Keep in touch (153 words) Examiner’s commentary Content All points are addressed. The piece of music is described briefly, and the candidate provides some clear reasons for their choice. Communicative achievement Register is consistently appropriate: informal email language is used throughout. Organization The writing has a natural flow, and a range of cohesive devices is used to good effect. The writing is well organized, and each paragraph has a clear focus. Language A range of relevant vocabulary is used, including a number of less common lexical items, e.g. melody, magic sight. Question 3 Content The review should give a description of a reality TV show and offer a recommendation, with reasons, to other people. Communicative achievement Neutral language. Review format. Suitable for readers of an international magazine for teenagers. Organization Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate. Language Describing, explaining, giving reasons, recommending. Sample answer Maybe you’re tired of reality TV shows because they are so similar to each other. Last night, however, I watched one I’d never heard of before. It was called Parent Swap, and was quite different from the others. © Copyright Oxford University Press
  18. 18. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools Two families with teenage children meet and spend a few days together in a hotel to get to know each other. When they leave, the teenagers swap families. In other words, one teenager from each family goes and lives with the other family. This sounds quite a simple idea, doesn’t it? But what makes it interesting is that the producers choose very different families. In last night’s programme one family was rich and lived in a large country house, while the other was poor and lived in a small inner city flat. Personally, I enjoyed seeing how the teenagers involved adjusted to life in a family very different from their own. Most of them coped very well. If you’re my age, I think you’ll enjoy Parent Swap. Try it at least once. (170 words) Examiner’s commentary Content All parts of the question are addressed. There is a clear description of the programme and sufficient information to enable the reader to decide whether or not to take up the writer’s recommendation. Communicative achievement Register is consistently appropriate throughout. The conventions of a review are, on the whole, followed. The style is appropriate for a teenage audience, and the writer speaks directly to the reader on a number of occasions. Organization The structure of the text is well organized and coherent. There is a good introduction to the topic and the final closing sentence suggests people watch the programme ‘at least once’. Language A range of everyday vocabulary specific to the topic is used appropriately. Question 4 The answer should address all the points listed in the question and include the first given line of the story, and mention a thunderstorm and a stranger. Content The story should follow on from the given prompt and is a submission for an English-language magazine for young people. Communicative achievement Neutral language. Story format. Organization Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate. Language Narrative tenses, discourse markers, direct or reported speech. Sample answer Jo was an hour from home when she noticed that her bicycle had a flat tyre. She’d been playing football in a neighbouring town and was cycling home. At first, she just thought the road was rather bumpy, but when she looked she saw that there was no air in her tyre. She couldn’t ride any further without damaging the wheel, so she decided to mend the tyre. She got off her bike, walked to the edge of the road and turned her bike upside down. Then she heard thunder and felt a few spots of rain. She ran with her bike to shelter under a tree. ‘That was bad luck,’ said a voice, ‘getting a flat tyre in a storm.’ Jo turned round and saw an old woman. ‘I don’t mind getting wet,’ said Jo. ‘But I still have a half-hour bike ride home.’ ‘I could give you a lift,’ said the old woman. ‘That’s very kind, said Jo, ‘but you don’t have a car.’ ‘You’re right,’ said the old woman, smiling, ‘but my son does. He’s coming to pick me up.’ (183 words) Examiner’s commentary Content The story follows on from the prompt in an appropriate way and includes mention of a thunderstorm and a stranger. Communicative achievement The narrative is easy to follow and has a satisfying conclusion. Organization The organization is clear, and the story holds together very well. Language There is an appropriate range of vocabulary. A number of less common lexical items are used with some skill (neighbouring, bumpy), and there is evidence of knowledge of some idiomatic language (a few spots of rain, give you a lift). A variety of structures is used, and direct speech and narrative prose combine appropriately. Question 5 Content The article should be based on the set text that the candidate has studied. It should briefly outline the story. The second paragraph should describe the ending and show how this follows on from what has gone before. In the third and final paragraph the candidate should say how effective they find the ending and, if relevant, provide a different, better alternative. Communicative achievement The answer should be in article format, using neutral or formal register. Organization Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate. Language There should be level-appropriate vocabulary and use of functional language to describe a story, give opinions, and give reasons. Sample answer The plot of [title of set text] is quite complicated, and involves a lot of different characters. As the story progresses, we see how these characters know one another, and how their actions impact on each others. At the end of the story the six different people meet in a small hotel on an island off the west coast of Scotland. This is where they must face a dark secret that has affected all their lives. At the very end, Dr Johnstone reveals that when the characters were newborn babies, he swapped them, to see how their lives would be different if they were brought on by another parent. Hearing this news, Katy attacks the doctor, and accidently kills him. The others all agree to keep their secret, and burn the hotel down. In my opinion the ending is a bit too dramatic. I didn’t feel it was effective because it was hard to believe a caring character like Katy would do something so terrible. I would have preferred if the six decided to tell the world what the doctor had done. This would be more realistic. (187 words) Examiner’s commentary Content The candidate has followed the instructions and fully answered the question about the ending of the story. The article expands on the ideas, giving examples from the book. Communicative achievement The candidate uses the conventions of the task with some flexibility and style. The target reader’s attention is held throughout. Organization The text is coherent and well organized into paragraphs. A range of linking words and cohesive devices is employed (At the end of the story …, In my opinion …). Language The candidate uses a range of vocabulary and grammatical forms with a good degree of control. Functional language to express opinions is employed effectively (I didn’t feel …, I would have preferred if …). © Copyright Oxford University Press
  19. 19. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools Listening Part 1 p80 1 B The speaker says: I used to get annoyed, because it seemed that Helena could get away with doing things that I’d never been allowed to do – it didn’t seem fair to me. This suggests that their parents were less strict with her sister. A The speaker says that she was more sociable than her sister, but doesn’t mention how often they went out. C The speaker mentions going to university next September. 2 A The speaker says: We’re launching it [new album] here in London two weeks today. I’m really excited! B The speaker says that she flew to the States to perform. This means she has been to America recently. C The speaker mentions that the album launch is in two weeks, but doesn’t say whether she will stay in London for that time. 3 C One of the speakers says: It always feels more of an occasion in the evening, doesn’t it? A The woman says she would prefer the evening, but this is before they decide which film to see. B The woman says she would prefer the evening, but doesn’t mention if she is busy during the afternoon. 4 B The speaker says: Your passport ran out three weeks ago. Run out means expired, or out of date, in this context. A The speaker mentions having the passport with him at the time. C The man has just got off a plane, but there is no suggestion that he was on the wrong plane. 5 A The teacher says: In the end, it’s up to you, Shaun. To make up your own mind means to decide on something. B Shaun only says that his parents disagree with his choice of optional subjects: my parents think they wouldn’t be very useful … in the future. C The teacher does not tell Shaun which subjects to choose. 6 B The speaker says: In the first half, very little happened. … But, after half time, it all suddenly came to life. A The reporter says it wasn’t the most thrilling game I’ve ever seen, although it became more exciting as the game progressed. C The speaker mentions the game getting better after half time, when it all suddenly came to life. 7 C The speaker says: amazingly, they [the parents] were in bed and still fast asleep. A The speaker says the window broke, indicating that there was damage to the house. B The speaker mentions his sister looking very scared. 8 B The speaker says: My father had been scared of dogs ever since he was bitten on the arm as a small boy. So I guess that’s where my phobia came from. A The speaker’s father was bitten, but the speaker doesn’t mention a similar incident. C The speaker mentions avoiding visiting people who owned dogs, but not that he was attacked by one. Part 2 p81 9 understand The auxiliary verb don’t is followed by a verb. The speaker says: Lots of us are frightened of lightning and its almost strange power, perhaps because we don’t understand it. 10 strikes The adverb never needs to be followed by a verb. The speaker says: Perhaps the most well known of these is that lightning never strikes twice. 11 location The adjective physical needs to be followed by a noun. The speaker says: some places are more likely than others to be struck by lightning. This is usually to do with their physical location. Location means place. 12 the open The speaker says: And as for people, I read about a Canadian park worker who spent a lot of his time working in the open and was actually struck seven times. The phrase in the open means outside. 13 downwards An adverb is required to describe the direction of travel. The speaker says: Another common belief is that lightning only comes from the sky and in a downward direction. 14 weather conditions The definite article indicates that a noun phrase is required. The speaker says lightning is associated in most of our minds with certain weather conditions – particularly rainstorms or changes in temperature. 15 Photographic An adjective is required before the noun, evidence. The speaker says: There is plenty of photographic evidence that shows lightning accompanying eruptions. 16 large orange The indefinite article indicates that a noun phrase is required. The speaker says: Glowing balls about the size of a large orange and of many different colours seem to float slowly in the air. 17 outside activities The definite article indicates that a noun phrase is required. The speaker says: The first thing to do is to avoid outside activities, particularly open-air sports, like golf and fishing. 18 electrical devices A noun phrase is required. This should describe a set which includes the examples. The speaker says: You should also unplug electrical devices like computers and televisions, because they can be damaged by the sudden increases in electrical power … . Part 3 p82 19 D The speaker says: In my experience, the arrival of spring affects people, too. Everyone seems to walk around with a smile on their face. 20 F The speaker says: … autumn is the best season for several reasons … maybe because my birthday is in the middle of September, actually the day before my father’s birthday. These are all examples of personal connections. 21 B The speaker says: It hasn’t always been like this; until I was about twelve, I loved spring as much as anyone else, but then suddenly one year, it all changed. This indicates that a contrast, and therefore a difference in feeling. 22 H The speaker says: For me, the only thing I didn’t like about the summer was getting bitten by insects. Only one [bad] thing and one disadvantage are synonyms. 23 E The speaker says: It’s the time of year when my mother cooked some of my favourite meals and we’d all sit round the table eating and chatting. A, C, and G are not used. Part 4 p83 24 B Ruby says: I’m just an ordinary seventeen-year-old girl who lives a normal life at home with my family. A The interviewer mentions that Ruby is making an international name for herself, meaning becoming famous worldwide, but Ruby doesn’t describe herself in such terms. © Copyright Oxford University Press
  20. 20. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools C The interviewer mentions Ruby’s ability, but Ruby describes herself as an ordinary seventeen-year-old. 25 A Ruby says: To be honest, I don’t remember much about those early lessons. B Ruby says: I certainly never made a fuss about going to lessons. C Ruby says: I think I enjoyed them, so is unclear on this. 26 A Ruby says: One day my music teacher came round to our house and spent an hour talking to my parents. Afterwards, they told me that my teacher wanted to put me in for a national competition for under-ten-year-olds. That really made me want to go on doing it. B Ruby mentions passing exams before other children, but not that this made her decide to take the violin more seriously. C Ruby mentions watching TV with friends as being just a thing she did, not an influence on her future. 27 C Ruby says: They stressed that I couldn’t have any time off school and that I’d have to keep up with all my schoolwork. But I didn’t mind that. A Ruby says she wasn’t allowed to take any time off school. B Ruby mentions the other children, but not whether she would discuss the competition with them. 28 C Ruby says: … by the time the competition came, I was exhausted. A Ruby says it was a little scary, but doesn’t suggest she was very nervous. B Ruby says it was a little scary, which suggests she wasn’t relaxed. 29 A Ruby says: I really enjoyed the day and it was such an honour to take part in the competition. B Ruby says: I didn’t mind not winning. C Ruby says: playing the violin was something I enjoyed so much that I wanted to go on doing it for the rest of my life. 30 B Ruby says: I’m lucky enough to be able to do what I like doing. A Ruby says she performs as a soloist because that’s what other people want. C Ruby says: for the most time, I’m still an ordinary girl who goes to school and lives with her family. This is a normal situation, though, and not one that she feels fortunate to be in. Practice Test 3 Reading and Use of English Part 1 p86 0 A aim An aim is an ambition or goal. 1 A caught The correct expression here is something catches your attention. You give someone or something your attention. Pay attention to something means focus your mind on something. 2 D take The correct expression is take … interest in something. Create interest means make something interesting to other people. Gain interest means people become interested in you. 3 C connection A connection with someone/something is an understanding of, or relationship with, a person or thing. 4 C choice The expression is have no choice but … meaning have no other option except the one named. 5 A advantage The expression take advantage of means use something that is available. You take the opportunity to do something. 6 D therefore Therefore means for this reason. Although and however express contrast, while moreover introduces supporting information. 7 C keeping The phrasal verb keep up means to continue or maintain something at the same level; get up means rise, while set up means start something new. 8 B assist Assist someone in doing something means help someone do something. Allow and permit are followed by a full infinitive and let by an infinitive without to. Part 2 p87 0 one To give a single example of something, we use one of. 9 was The simple past of the passive (was known) is used because once indicates past time. 10 in After a superlative (the largest fruit and vegetable market), we use the preposition in to describe the category in which it is the largest, here in the country. 11 which The relative pronoun which refers back to the famous square and completes the non-defining relative clause. 12 up The phrasal verb be made up of means consist of. 13 than The structure more than is used with a number or an amount to show comparison, meaning a greater number than (200). 14 can/will A modal verb of possibility (can) or probability (will) is needed before the infinitive find. 15 at The preposition at is used with times. 16 over/around The phrases all over/around the world mean all parts of the world. Part 3 p88 0 fitness The use of the possessive pronoun your indicates that the noun form is needed. 17 daily The adverb daily, meaning every day, is needed to indicate how often the activity should be done. 18 strength The use of the possessive pronoun their indicates that the noun form is needed. 19 performance The possessive pronoun your and adjective mental indicate that the noun form is needed. 20 harmful An adjective form is needed since the gap is preceded by the and followed by a noun. 21 gradually An adverb is needed to follow the phrasal verb build up. 22 choice The indefinite article a followed by the adjective careful indicates that the noun form is needed. 23 protection The structure is offer someone something, so the noun form is needed here. 24 heat The noun form is needed here after the verb keep in, and body is used here as an adjective. Part 4 p89 0 looking forward to hearing The phrase be keen to is replaced by look forward to and is followed by the -ing form of the verb hear. 25 had/took a close look The passive construction changes to active, and the phrase had/took a close look replaces examined closely.
  21. 21. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools 26 had arrived in time If … wouldn’t have shows that a third conditional is needed; the phrase in time means with enough time to spare. 27 said a word The adverb hardly is followed by an affirmative verb form; the auxiliary has and the time phrase this evening indicate that a present perfect form is needed. 28 not have enough money To say that something is too expensive for you indicates that you do not have enough money to pay for it. 29 rather you didn’t/did not The phrase I’d rather is followed by an object and the past form of the verb. In this case it is negative because the preference is for something not to be done. 30 to keep an eye on The phrase keep an eye on (something) means watch (something) carefully. Part 5 p90 31 C Paragraph 1 The writer states: The appeal for young travellers was clear: expensive hotels were not mentioned, which attracted those managing on a limited budget. Limited budget suggests little money. A The guides emphasized the importance of … meeting local people, but they did not explain how to make friends. B While the guides emphasized the importance of spending time in a country and taking the time to get to know other cultures, the writer does not say that they gave any new information about the cultures. D While the guides encouraged spending time in a country and taking the time to get to know other cultures, there was no suggestion that trips should be very long. 32 C Paragraph 2 The phrases a tendency to make decisions spontaneously and a willingness to cheerfully adapt highlight their enjoyment of the unexpected. A The writer mentions the Wheelers’ use of unreliable transport bringing out their willingness to cheerfully adapt. B Their tendency to make decisions spontaneously suggests that they did not seek practical advice in advance. D They saw that tourists needed information on where to stay and how to survive, not good facilities. 33 B Paragraph 3 The writer stresses: the main selling point was that they produced guidebooks to places nobody else investigated. The fact that nobody else investigated the locations suggests they were unusual. A The writer says that today they have to sell enough books to remain profitable, but does not compare its sales to that of the competition. C The writer states: they prefer not to use advertising. D Today’s Lonely Planet writers cover almost everywhere, but we are not told in the third paragraph that the number of writers made Lonely Planet books different. 34 D Paragraph 4 Tony says: it’s always valuable to know what’s happening and that keeping up to date is the key, suggesting that they achieve this partly through reader feedback. A Tony says: complaints from readers are often beyond our control … but of course it’s always valuable to know what’s happening, suggesting that there are good reasons for the complaints. B Tony says complaints from readers are often beyond our control, but this doesn’t mean that writers need to be controlled. C Tony mentions that feedback is often about prices going up, but he doesn’t say that they pay readers anything for their feedback. 35 B Paragraph 5 The Wheelers say: you need to honestly consider [if] you really want excitement or moments of discomfort, suggesting that adventure is not for everyone. A They mention that if you are interested in culture, this will affect where you go, but not that all travellers should focus on culture. C They say that you should only travel for as long as you’re happy to be travelling. D They say you should consider what the options are for getting there and travelling around, but do not mention convenience. 36 C Paragraph 6 The writer says building the company was never easy and that the Wheelers had to take months off [other jobs] to do research, suggesting they overcame many challenges. A The writer says that the Wheelers had to take months off to do research but that they would still love to repeat that life-changing trip, which suggests they are not tired of travel or research. B The writer says that it was never easy, but there is no suggestion that they regret the time spent travelling. D The writer says that the books have inspired many to follow in their footsteps and see the world, but not that the Wheelers have inspired others to write. Part 6 p92 37 D The words strength and determination refer back to the other women looking confident and extremely fit, and this idea is continued in the following sentence: In fact …, I made it my mission to be at the peak of physical fitness … 38 F The phrase this preparation refers back to the ten days spent getting used to the environment and training on the ice. The slow progress they made is explained by the terrible conditions referred to in the following sentence. 39 A This trip refers back to trekking solo to the South Pole; I’d be alone refers back to solo, and I felt differently is focussed on in the following sentence: Other people were also concerned for my safety. 40 E The phrase physical difficulties refers back to having to drag a 120 kg sleigh, while the emotional ones are addressed in the following sentence: I missed my family terribly, which is introduced by the phrase For example. 41 B The phrase At the same time adds another challenge – lack of sleep – to the difficulties already described in the previous sentences. The phrase hardly any sleep refers forward to the phrase cut back so much on the amount of rest I had. 42 G That’s why I never thought about giving up refers back to the challenge suggested in the phrase No woman had ever done this. The phrase I had to admit defeat in the following sentence refers back to giving up in sentence G. Part 7 p94 43 B Amanda says: It’s virtually impossible just to go along to your local pool … There are so few occasions when it’s empty enough to practise without other people around.
  22. 22. Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation Practice for B2 First for Schools 44 D Tony says: Success is just a matter of hard work. You could get the same results from any youngster that you worked with on a daily basis. 45 B The writer refers to Amanda’s tough training schedule based in several different locations. 46 D Tony says: The media side of it is fine as long as it takes second place to my training. 47 C The writer states: Sadly, injuries have slowed Sally’s progress this year. ‘It’s hard to be philosophical and accept that it’s something every competitor has to deal with at some point’. 48 A The writer states that Paul’s coach has instructed him to build up his muscle power. 49 C The writer describes how last year Sally broke her own personal record three times. It changed everything for her. 50 D Tony says: The best advice I’ve ever had was … that the moment being rich and famous becomes more important than the sheer love of swimming, I should get out of the pool and never get back in. 51 A The writer describes how Paul and his family talk together about every aspect of the next race: how to approach it, the importance of not being afraid of losing, the need to maintain concentration. 52 B The writer describes how Amanda left school at sixteen to focus on her sport. It involved a lot of heart-searching, because it meant not going to university, despite pressure from her teachers and family. Writing Part 1 p96 Question 1 The answer should address these points: Content The essay should discuss why music is so important in the lives of young people today. Communicative achievement The answer should be in essay format, using appropriately neutral or formal register. Organization Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate. Language There should be level-appropriate vocabulary and use of functional language to express opinion, give reasons, compare and conclude. Sample answer In this essay is discussed the statement ‘music is one of the most important things in the lives of young people today.’ On the one hand there are lots of activities based on music, for example going to a concert as well as talking about music. One could say that young people are choosing friends because of the music style the other person prefers. On the other hand, young people are meeting each other much more often to watch TV than to hear music. Additional the time young people spend on the computer is incredible high. Most of teenagers enjoy music in order to relax. Often they put music when they study to help with concentration. However, it depends on the style and it’s a good way to express your feelings – sometimes happy and lively, other times sad. Digital music has additionally increased the importance of music. As a result music is heard everywhere now. One can add that the importance of music is continiously increasing since the 1960s. On balance I agree with the statement, because music is a very important factor of our all day life. (188 words) Examiner’s commentary Content The candidate answers the question very competently. Both the content points given are covered, and the candidate includes their own third point. The target reader would be fully informed and would understand the writer’s opinion and reasons for that opinion. Communicative achievement The essay is well written, using the conventions of the task. There are several minor errors in the essay, but they probably would not lead to confusion or misunderstandings. Organization The candidate has linked together ideas and arguments, and correctly uses a wide range of linking words and phrases (on the one/other hand, as well as, however, additionally, as a result, on balance). Language Part 2 p97 Question 2 The answer should address these points: Content The story should end with the words provided in the rubric and include a problem and a mistake. Communicative achievement The task should be written in a story format, using neutral language. Organization Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate. Language Narrative tenses and descriptive language. Sample answer It was a rainy day in Germany. Everything seemed so perfect. All my guests arrived and they were waiting in the church for me, to see me in my beautiful wedding dress. All of these people were expecting from me saying ‘I do’. There I was, staying in my room in front of a big mirror. I looked so beautiful but my thought were getting crazy. I was so confused, my fiancé was waiting for me. He was so lucky with me and to win me. But I could just think about his best man. He was the only man I really wanted to marry. I loved him and he loved me. How could I tell Mark that I felt in love in his best friend. I couldn’t impossibly say that I have had an affair with John for one year. But in a few minutes our both our dream will be over, although I understood it was a big mistake. Mark answered ‘I do’. The same question for me. My heart was beating faster than never before. The words ‘I do, I do, I do …’ were in my head but I couldn’t speak them out. Instead of ‘I do’ I said to Mark I couldn’t do this and I didn’t love him. I told him that John was the man I felt in love with and it would be horrible for me, for us be together. I expected him crying, shouting, swearing. But for god’s sake he looked deeply in my eyes and said ‘I know. I say you together in the chapel.’ He excused for this disappointment and walked away slowly and didn’t look back even once. (280 words) Examiner’s commentary Content The story ends naturally and appropriately with the words given in the question and includes the two content points given, but is over the word limit of 190 words. Organization There is a fairly good range of linking words and phrases in the story (there I was, but in a few minutes, although, instead of).

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