Oxford preparation and practice b2 first for schools answer key

for Preparation ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Answer key Answer key PREPARATION ANSWER KEY Reading and Use of English Part 3 p14 Answer key Part 1 p9 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 a heavy traffic f strong coffee b bitterly cold g drive dangerously c computer screen h virtually impossible d eat healthily i tell the truth e shake hands j seat belt a verbs accuse someone of something congratulate someone on something lend something to someone rely on someone to 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 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 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 1 for 2 if/whether 3 but 4 at 5 more 6 to 7 from 8 the 9 when 10 did ANSWER KEY 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) 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 Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools © Copyright Oxford University Press Part 7 p28 f  exciting • adjective: original •  it’s probably another adjective g  composer •  a talented followed by a noun Part 4 p17 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 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 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 Writing Part 1 Essay p32 Part 5 p20 Paragraph 1: introducing the duo Paragraph 2: reasons for success 1 C  2 A 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 1 B neck of the woods means a particular area 2 C by our own efforts means without anyone’s help Part 6 p24 a One of the reasons for this b This c However d These e These mechanisms f This 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 More information about how plants manage to live without light C ANSWER KEY Children should start learning a second language while they are at primary school Do you agree? Notes Things to write about the importance of learning a second language the best age to start my experience Students’ own answers Plan is best Paragraph introduces the subject; paragraphs and consider both sides of the argument Paragraph expresses the writer’s own opinion Plan has no logical structure It moves from one subject to the other in a random way and has no conclusion Plan only considers the writer’s opinion and just lists reasons for this opinion Also, it has no conclusion 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 Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools © Copyright Oxford University Press Answer key 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  a Marcia’s 1  a Marcia b Frances’ b Rob c Rob’s c Frances d Frances’ d Marcia e Rob’s e Rob f Frances 1 C 4 B 7 C 2 A 5 A 8 B 3 C 6 A 9  A Answer key Part 2 Email p35 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 … 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 P  ossible 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 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 ANSWER KEY Possible improved version based on the same basic information: 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 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) 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 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 Students’ own answers 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 Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools © Copyright Oxford University Press 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 a during d When/While b After/As soon as/When e after a few minutes c Next/Then f As soon as/When Part 2 p45 1 members 2 farmers 3 eating 4 traditional 5 processed 1 class 2 heavy 3 lessons 4 came 5 could Listening 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 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 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 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 you travel everywhere by car? Speaker 1  C Speaker 2  H Speaker 5  D Part 4 p49 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 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 1 A ​2 C ​ 3 B ​ 4 C ​5 B ​ 6 A  ​7 B Listening Speaking Part 1 p42 Part 1 p51 A C C B 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 Speaker 3  A Speaker 4  F and 2  Sample answers (exercise 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 Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools © Copyright Oxford University Press Answer key Part 3 p47 Part 2 Article p39 ANSWER KEY 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 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 makes no attempt to answer 3 1 Candidate 2’s answer is too short, lacking enough detail Candidate doesn’t answer the question 4 3 Candidate 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 doesn’t answer the question Answer key Part 2 p52 Differences Similarities Clothes people are wearing People on beach Weather Adults and children Activities On holiday Relaxing Some people sitting Sandy beach You can see the sea 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 Students’ own answers 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 personally to keep fit d  They talk for about the same length of time e  Yes, usually 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 that? / How about you? / … don’t you agree? / What about you? Part 4 p55 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? Students’ own answers Students’ own answers ANSWER KEY Reading and Use of English Part 1 p57 a pros b close c tall d clock e top; closed f over; driving g minds h rainy i minute j good a air b drop c escape d thoughts e order f food g print h feet i visit j talk 1 C 2 A 3 D 4 A 5 C 6 B 7 D 8 B D 2 C 3 A 4 D 5 B 6 C 7 A 8 D Part 2 p60 Part 3 p54 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 Students’ own answers a part f common b came g granted c mind h by d favour i blue e sight j leg 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 a by and large f odds and ends b ins and outs g peace and quiet c law and order h sick and tired d loud and clear i ups and downs e neat and tidy j wear and tear 1 granted 2 any 3 loud 4 on Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools © Copyright Oxford University Press 5 over 6 quiet Writing 7 to 8 for Part 2 Review p75 Part 3 p63 Part 4 p65 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 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 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 ANSWER KEY 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 and 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 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 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 Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools © Copyright Oxford University Press Answer key A nouns: -ness / -ship / - ion / -hood / -ance / -ment B adjectives: -able / -ible / -ish / -ful / -less / -ant C verbs: -ize / -ify / -ate / -en (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 dis- disable disadvantage ​ dishonest il- illegal ​illogical im- impatient ​improbable in- inconvenient ​informal ir- irregular irrelevant mis- misspell misunderstand un- unable ​unnecessary a growing e booking b completely f tourism c disagreements g belongings d illegal h collection 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 Say whether the theme is still relevant today Para 4 Conclusion: Summarize main ideas Make a general comment about why we still study longdead 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 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 ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools © Copyright Oxford University Press for Practice Tests 1–6 ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools © Copyright Oxford University Press Answer key Answer key PRACTICE TEST ANSWER KEY 16 because  Because of is a prepositional phrase, which introduces a reason and is usually followed by a noun or noun phrase Practice Test Reading and Use of English Part 3 p16 Answer key Part 1 p11 B  familiar  Familiar takes the preposition with Conscious and aware take of Knowledgeable takes the preposition about 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 A  interested  be interested + in something The other adjectives are followed by different prepositions: inspired by; attracted to; enthusiastic about 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 B  over  The correct phrase is all over the world 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 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 D  continued  Continue is followed by to + infinitive Keep has a similar meaning, but is followed by -ing or on + -ing 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 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 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 ANSWER KEY 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 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 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 The writer states: they would rather stay at home and 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 Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools © Copyright Oxford University Press 36 B  Paragraph The writer states: we all need to put our hands on the volume control to it Or, preferably, the off switch A  There is no point in protesting about it, because no one will listen C  The reference to ‘earlids’ that could shut out the noise is not a practical suggestion, as we don’t have earlids D  Although there are legal sanctions, … they are rarely enforced; in other words, the law is not often used against people who make a noise 37 G  In one day alone last year refers back to the time reference Since then … number of searches carried out is an example of the amount of information and reached 3.5 billion refers back to has grown rapidly 38 E  This enables you to track refers back to Google Trends The term global warming is an example of different words or phrases and how … has grown refers back to compare … over time 39 B  The sentence mentions two problems: the results are only approximate and Google will not reveal the actual numbers These refer back to the form of measurement being far from perfect The lack of actual numbers of searches is followed by the linking expression As a result, and then no indication of scale 40 F  There is a contrast between other results that are clearly seasonal and interests that are sometimes … driven fairly obviously by the news agenda The word seasonal also refers forward to in winter and in summer 41 C  This information refers back to the previous sentence, in particular the reference to banking (financier), and candidate, voting and election (political campaign manager) 42 A  The first word But contrasts with without ever giving a thought to where all that data was going with the reality of what happens to it: so much seems to last only seconds … this isn’t really the case This point is reinforced in the final sentences: It is all stored somewhere The Internet never forgets Part 7 p112 43 B  Steve says the hotel was really only a place to sleep ‘ I wanted to try the gym and pool, but I just didn’t have time I never got round to using them.’ 44 C  The writer mentions the Roman Baths at Bad Bergfall, saying ‘I wish we’d been able to go there’ 45 B  Steve says: Before I actually got out and about, I thought I’d be bored stiff here, but that wasn’t the case at all 46 D  Gordon says: The drop below us suddenly looked so scary – I hadn’t expected that 47 C  Annie says: Instead of relying on bikes or Nordic skis to get around, as we’ve done in the past, why not go on horseback? 48 A  Clare says: The only disadvantage is that you tend to sleep in quite late the next day 49 B  Steve’s original plan was for a fortnight in Canada 50 A  Clare describes the nightlife as wonderful and mentions some great cafés and restaurants, and places to dance, too 51 B  Steve says: Whatever kind of biking experience you want, you’ll find it nearby 52 C  Annie says: … we’ve already booked again for next year ANSWER KEY Part 1 p114 The answer should address these points: Content  The essay should give an opinion on whether tourism has a negative effect or not on holiday destinations 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 The essay should either provide an opinion in paragraph 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 express opinion, express contrasts, make additional points, evaluate, and conclude Sample answer Over the last few decades tourism has been a growing industry While many people have benefitted from the opportunity to travel, and meet people of other cultures, there are some definite drawbacks to this growth One of the biggest problems caused by holiday-makers is pollution Long and short-haul flights use a lot of fuel, which adds to global warming But the environmental problems don’t just stop there Tourists often cause significant damage to the natural environment – for example coral reefs are affected by divers Also tourists create a lot of extra pressure on local environments More water is used, more rubbish is created, and natural habitats are destroyed to build hotels Although some businesses make a lot of money from tourism, most of that money does not go to locals The number of available jobs might increase, but this is often badly paid and seasonal Sometimes people become too dependent upon tourism, and don’t continue with work which helps the local community This can be a problem if tourist numbers decline To sum up, tourism can bring some benefits, but all in all these are outweighed by its negative effects (190 words) Examiner’s commentary Content  All content is relevant, and the target reader is on the whole informed The candidate discusses the first two numbered points in the question They address the negative effects of global tourism on vulnerable resorts, explaining that increased pollution can greatly impact health The second point is addressed by saying that while holiday destinations benefit from greater tourist spending, prices increase However, although these two points are covered in some depth, there is no 3rd point (your own idea) introduced by the candidate, resulting in the target reader not being fully informed 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 formal throughout and the topic is treated in an appropriate way Balanced views and opinions are given, and the candidate also suggests scenarios to support certain views Both straightforward and more complex, abstract ideas are communicated clearly to the reader Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Answer key Part 6 p110 Writing Answer key Organization  The essay is well organized and coherent and uses a variety of cohesive devices, referencing, pronouns, substitution and conjunctions to link the ideas across the text Organization patterns are used to generally good effect, with positive and negative opinions being given The essay has a generally good overall structure, with a clear opening paragraph setting out the topic of the essay Two points are developed in the main body, but the conclusion is brief Language  A good range of vocabulary is used appropriately, including some effective collocations There is a range of simple and complex grammatical forms used with control and flexibility to communicate specific ideas Part 2 p115 The answers should address these points: Question Content  The review should describe a computer game Communicative achievement  Neutral language Review format suitable for readers of an English-language computer games website Organization  Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate Language  Describing, giving instructions, making recommendations Sample answer Personnally, I’m not interested in playing computer games I had being thought most of computer games were very violent, moreover were not educational For this reason, I hasn’t played computer games at all before I met ‘Brain Game’ Now, I would like to recommend you the game that was the most interesting computer game I’ve played before The game is originally form Japan The game consists of two parts, the first one is brain test part The other one is a brain practice part On the brain test part, you can estimate your brain through different kinds of games For example, you can see many shadows and pictures and then you try and guess which shadow is match for each picture using the special stick, the other game is that you can solve the problem using a diagram or cube There is a teacher Basically, the teacher leads this game After the brain test, you can get you result from the teacher The teacher would tell you that what is your weakness (In my case was math.) On the second part, you can practice your weakness part according to your test result When you practice using the variety kind of game, the teacher give you some comments that how can you improve your ability I think the teacher makes the game more lively After the game, your result, on the other hand, the your highest record is stored, and is compared with other people If someone who find a pratical game without violence I recommend this game (257 words) Examiner’s commentary Content  All parts of the question are addressed, and there is sufficient expansion with relevant examples given Communicative achievement  Accuracy is variable Errors tend to be due to ambition, but are fairly numerous and this interferes with the natural flow of the writing The response is entirely appropriate in tone for its intended audience ANSWER KEY Organization  The text is well organized into paragraphs, each of which has a logical focus A range of cohesive devices is used with some skill Language  Reasonable range of grammar and a good range of suitable vocabulary Question Content  The letter to a penfriend should talk about a hobby or interest Communicative achievement  Informal language Letter format Organization  Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate Language  Describing, explaining, giving reasons Sample answer Dear Melissa, Thank you for your letter I was really pleased to hear anything about you How are you? You wrote me that you are interested in my favorite hobby That’s why I write you know Since years I have been playing the flut First I had taken some lessons in our music school but when I finished my secondary school and began my apprenticeship I stopped with my lessons and joined a music group In this music group we are about 45 people from the age of 16 to 80 So we play togheter with young and old That’s one reason why I like this group The other reason is that I prefer playing in a group My only problem is that I don’t like to train at home so somethimes it’s very difficult for my At the moment I really miss my music group because usually one a week we meet us to practice the songs Now you now what my hobby is Do you play also a music instrument? And what is your favorit hobby or interest? I’m looking forward to hearing you soon Best wishes (190 words) Examiner’s commentary Content  All content points are covered with some expansion Communicative achievement  Register is consistently appropriate (friendly, informal) The target reader would be informed Organization  A range of cohesive devices is used, including reference and substitution Paragraphing is not totally effective, but the message is conveyed clearly and logically Language  Fairly good range of structures and vocabulary There is some first language interference (Since years I have been playing …, we meet us to practice the songs, Do you play also …?) Generally, however, the language is well controlled Question Content  The article should describe a traditional family celebration Communicative achievement  Neutral language Article format Suitable for readers of an international magazine Organization  Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate Language  Describing, explaining, giving reasons Sample answer It’s very important to celebrate of birthday without any exception all around the world In Korea, especially, we have a special birthday for children We have two specific days The one is the first birthay, the another one is 100th day since the children was born Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Listening Examiner’s commentary Part 1 p116 Content  All parts of the question are addressed and there are some good examples and plenty of expansion C  The speaker mentions a good view of the stage, collecting something at the door, and after the show A  The girl mentions that the train might be late B  The girl asks about places to eat after the show B  The report mentions flames and that millions of litres of water are being … dropped from aircraft onto the affected area A  The report mentions heavy rain, but says that here, in July, that is just not going to happen C  Villages are under threat of being cut off by the flames, not by water, which is being taken from a local lake to try to control the fire A  It is the fact that dessert still hasn’t arrived that isn’t good enough, and also the side salad arriving after the main course spoiled the meal B  If the service had been good, it would have been quite a nice meal; the speaker does not say that there was anything wrong with the quality of the food C  The speaker says I would like to have the bill now, please, so we know the bill has not yet been received C  The speaker says her friend Keith invited some of us round … in the end there must have been over fifty of us there Most people brought their own music, which meant we had lots of different kinds of things to listen to This implies that there was a party A  Keith is a friend … from school, but they were at his home in the evening, not at school B  The speaker says that the evening was much better than going to a disco A  The boy regrets not trying the activity before He says: All in all, I had a good time, though I wish I’d had a go at it earlier B  The boy mentions that he felt really sore after the climb, but this is not his overall feeling C  The boy’s sister advised him to exercises, but he didn’t take this advice C  The girl doesn’t want to go to the beach today, as there isn’t time, and then suggests a swim at the pool at the sports centre A  The girl says there’s nothing else to except spend all day in the house but is talking about Monday, not today B  The boy suggests the beach, because it’s a lovely day and the sea will be warm enough for a swim, but the girl would rather that at the pool Communicative achievement  Register is consistently appropriate throughout Organization  Cohesion is variable The sentences not flow naturally and there is limited flexibility, although a range of cohesive devices is attempted Language  There is a good range of relevant vocabulary which is generally used appropriately Some less common lexical items are used Simple sentences are usually quite accurate, but problems can arise with verb–noun agreement and tense use (sometimes changes within a sentence, e.g so many children died […] because they have severe diseases) However, errors not prevent communication Question The answer should address these points: Content  The review should give information about the text/ film and an evaluation of it Communicative achievement  The answer should be fairly informal style Clear ideas and holds reader’s attention Organization  Clear organization and paragraphs, with a variety of linking words Language  There should be a variety of vocabulary and grammar, with some complex sentences Sample answer First of all, I have to say that this movie is very romantic so if you are not interested in love stories, I wouldn’t recommend it Nevertheless, for those people who love romance and beautiful scenery in the background, they should definitely see this movie In my opinion, the plot is really exciting as you can’t predict what happens next so it keeps you interested The characters are acted very well and the music makes it feel sensitive and full of love From my point of view, it can be very challenging to make a film of such a famous book However, in this case it has been made very well I don’t want to tell you the whole story as that will be pointless But I can tell you that you can expect a truly amazing love story with lots of surprises It is also quite funny sometimes What can I add? Just enjoy it I am sure you will definitely like it (164 words) ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Answer key Content  Mentions the plot, type of story and supports opinions about the film/story and why friends may or may not like it Communication  Style is appropriately informal used consistently Enthusiasm for the film is expressed clearly and reader’s attention is held Organization  Ideas are clearly organized (First of all) and paragraphs are used quite well There is a variety of linking words (so, however) Language  Variety of vocabulary (challenging, truly amazing) A good range of simple and more complex sentences are used to good effect Apart from modern society, at the last generation their health was very weak, so many children died before over the 100 days, because they have severe diseases On 100th day since they were born, their parents and many relatives hold a big party for their children who suffer from many dieases As the same reason, 1st birthday as well very important celebration day in Korea In 1st birthday, we eat special rice cake which is called baksoul-ki, and children wear the special dress that is called han-bok Even if the children’s health very improving than before 1st birthday is still important us But 100th day’s case their meaning is getting weaker (158 words) Answer key B  The speaker thinks her money must have fallen out of her pocket because she hasn’t done anything else with it A  The speaker took some money with her because she was going to buy a few things, but in the end [she] didn’t C  The speaker lent Karen some money last week, not today B  The speaker asks listeners to listen to extracts from songs that were all first released in the same year and identify the year The lucky winner will be chosen later in the programme A  The speaker explains how the competition works, but doesn’t give advice C  The winner will receive free tickets to a concert; they not have to buy them Part 2 p117 young people  An indirect object is required What we’re going to is explain what astronomy is and, we hope, make it more interesting for young people 10 Tuesday  The phrase the last … in July requires a day to complete it … it’ll be on the last Thursday in July, is that right? … it’s been brought forward a couple of days to the Tuesday 11 sun  The definite article indicates that a noun is required Starting suggests the first thing … we’ll be starting early in the evening, weather permitting, by having a look at the sun 12 museum  The definite article indicates that a noun is required Will they be observing the night sky straight after that? … No First, Dr Margaret Fraser will give a short talk … then there will be a quick tour of the museum Quick tour and visit are synonyms 13 midnight  The preposition until indicates that a time reference is required Assuming it isn’t [cloudy], we’ll carry on until midnight 14 coat  The indefinite article indicates that a noun is required … I’d advise everyone to have a coat with them 15 tea and coffee/refreshments  The adjective free indicates that a noun is required Is there anything else that people should bring … ? Some refreshments, perhaps? … tea and coffee will be available free of charge Available and provided are synonyms 16 space  The phrase lack of, meaning not having much, requires a noun to complete it There won’t be very many [tickets], though; we just don’t have the space 17 e mail/e-mail/email  The phrasal verb obtained by indicates that a method of delivery is required … as soon as we receive an email from somebody requesting a ticket, we’ll send them one, or at most two, immediately 18 years/two years  The phrase from now indicates that a time period is required … we can’t have one next year because we’re booked up all summer, but possibly in two years’ time Part 3 p118 19 D  The speaker was at sea in a small boat, and says that the crew of a fishing boat offered to take me back to the town if I liked, but I said no 20 E  The speaker saw other skiers turning left across the slope, and took a chance and followed them 21 A  The speaker called the emergency services and says that they told me to stay where I was Then a rescue helicopter arrived and picked me up ANSWER KEY 22 F  The speaker had done a survival exercise before and did what I’d been taught to make a shelter 23 C  The speaker had read the chapter about deserts in a survival guide and followed its advice to rest during the heat of the day The speaker stayed in a cave until the sun went down B, G, and H are not used Part 4 p119 24 C She says: It was really about making a difference to people’s lives, especially those who couldn’t fully look after themselves A  Everyone she knew said that she must be mad, so we know that her friends did not this B  She says that she didn’t really mind where they sent her 25 A  She printed it out, filled it in, and posted it that afternoon B She had a phone call from the human resources manager, but it was the next morning, after she had sent the application form C  She found the application form online but printed it out, explaining: I don’t like giving out so much personal information online 26 B  Prior to being accepted for training, she says there would be an interview A She had a formal letter from them a couple of days later, i.e after the interview, asking her to go for a medical C  They asked her to go for a medical, and then to go to their training centre out in the countryside a week after that 27 B  The training course lasted a whole fortnight A  She went to the training centre a week after her medical examination C  She went to the equator three weeks after her training course: three weeks later I was off to work in a village about 200 kilometres from the equator 28 C  She says that she and others going to the same place spent a couple of hours in the departure lounge trying to hide our nerves by laughing about the things that’d happened on the course A She knew the work that lay ahead would at times be tiring, but she does not mention being tired at the airport B  She says that they knew what to expect and adds: I don’t think we were scared 29 B  They had to sleep eight to a very small room and she was an only child, so that took some getting used to A  The food … was different, but she is a vegetarian, so a meat-free diet … was fine C  She says she was prepared for life without showers or even tap water 30 A  The project was setting up a local health centre, and she believes that the centre will benefit [the local people] greatly for a long time to come B  She was worried that they weren’t going to finish it on time, but emphasizes that they did, and that it’s something [they’ll] always be proud of C  The project was carried out with the inhabitants of the village Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Practice Test Reading and Use of English Part 1 p122 Part 2 p123 since  The present perfect have continued is used with since, followed by a date or time which/that  The relative pronouns which or that refer back to technology, and complete the defining relative clause 10 up  The phrasal verb come up with means to find or produce an answer, solution or new idea 11 rather  The correct phrase is rather than and means instead of 12 this/that   The pronoun this/that refers back to products [being] created by teams of people 13 those  The plural pronoun is needed here to mean the people (involved) 14 can/could  The modal forms can or could are needed here to express ability 15 if  If completes the second conditional sentence here: if (something) were to happen … (something) would happen 16 in  The correct phrase is in the future We use the preposition in when referring to time Part 3 p124 competitive  The adjective form is needed following is and the adverb highly 17 successful  The adjective form is needed following are, describing 5% (of students) 18 confidence  The noun form is needed following the preposition with and the superlative structure the most 19 awareness  The noun form is needed following the indefinite article a and the adjective greater ANSWER KEY Part 4 p125 since I last went  The present perfect negative in the first sentence becomes a simple past affirmative, because the last time the action was carried out is given 25 does it take to/will it take to  How long something takes means how much time is needed to something 26 must have left them  The past modal form must have + past participle is needed, with the object them referring to the keys 27 haven’t/have not been in contact  The phrase lose touch means not be in contact; the simple past in the first sentence changes to present perfect because of the time expression for many years 28 it up to you  Leave it up to someone means that you let that person make a decision about something 29 to be as good as/would be as good as  Following the negative form of the verb expect, the infinitive (to be) or conditional form (would be) are possible The comparative form (better than) in the first sentence becomes as good as in the second 30 unusual for him to be  Because the subject of the new sentence is it, he is changes to for him to be following the adjective unusual Part 5 p126 31 C  Paragraph The writer states: for Jerry Wilkins it was a chance meeting with another photographer which led him to take up the profession A  Jerry says: I wasn’t particularly interested in any art subjects at all, even though my father had been a keen painter, suggesting his father’s example had had no influence on him B  A friend talked [him] into going with him … to a talk by [a] famous photographer, but did not persuade him to take up photography D  The writer states: Many people know from an early age what they are destined to do, but this was not the case for Jerry 32 A  Paragraph Jerry says that you can’t just take photos when the feeling takes you, and that you’ve got to regard it as a profession; this suggests having discipline B  Jerry says that working with other photographers helped [him] make a little progress but not that this is necessary C  Jerry mentions getting your camera out when the feeling takes you but says that he realizes a photographer needs to have a more professional attitude to taking photographs Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Answer key C  reflect  Here, the verb reflect means indicate, show or be a sign of B  considered  The verb consider is not followed by a preposition or particle, and means the thing was thought about in a particular way Regarded would have the same meaning if followed by as C awarded If you award something to someone, you give it as a prize in a contest The phrase reward someone with something is used when someone does something good, such as returning a lost object D  case  The correct phrase is be the case, i.e be the true or stated situation C  combined  The verb combine is followed by with and means to mix with, following logically from is rarely found in pure form D  hope  The phrase in the hope of means having a belief that something might come true C  fashion  The phrase go out of fashion means that something is no longer commonly used or believed, etc D  treating  To treat an injury or illness is to use a method or substance to help improve or cure it B  prevents  To prevent is to stop something happening before it begins If you avoid something, you keep yourself away from it 20 encouragement  The noun form is needed as an object following offer, and also to pair correctly with the noun support 21 introduction  The noun form is needed following the indefinite article an 22 suitable  The adjective form is needed following is; the phrase be suitable for means be appropriate for 23 surprisingly  An adverb is needed to complete the phrase introduced with not; the phrase not surprisingly means it is not a surprise that 24 widen  The bare infinitive verb form is needed after to 33 Answer key 34 35 36 D  Jerry says that his first efforts were absolutely awful, but does not say that being very self-critical is a necessary part of being a photographer B  Paragraph Jerry says the experience of playing near the rainforest drew him to the animals that pose more of a threat and led to him specializing in photographing big cats A  He was excited and nervous at the thought of encountering wild animals, but the result was that he felt drawn to the animals that pose more of a threat C  He says that the environment influenced his interest in animals, not that he learnt a lot about it D  He mentions playing near the forest, but does not say he made up games A  Paragraph To be in two minds about something means that you aren’t sure what you think about something The fact that he didn’t expect anyone to be interested suggests that he had doubts or was unsure about selling his photographs B  The fact that Jerry didn’t expect anyone to be interested shows that he was not determined to sell his photographs C  The fact that Jerry didn’t expect anyone to be interested shows that he was not excited about selling his photographs D  There is no suggestion that Jerry was thinking deeply about the idea of selling his photographs C  Paragraph Jerry says South Africa affected [his] work dramatically His new focus on colour and landscapes has influenced [his] photos ever since, showing that the experience changed him A  Jerry says he felt a strong pull towards the colours and the landscapes, but he did not move to South Africa B  Following his trip to South Africa, Jerry now arranges trips abroad for groups of photographers, at specially discounted prices However, these are not all based in South Africa D  Jerry now arranges trips for groups of photographers but these are not people he met in South Africa D  Paragraph Jerry says that knowing what it is that you’re aiming for will definitely help you Knowing suggests having an idea A  Jerry says that animals rarely stay in one place for long, not that the photographer should keep still B  Jerry says that going out and snapping at random is not the best approach C  Jerry does not say it always takes time to find a suitable subject, but that you should be prepared to wait quite a while to get the picture you want Part 6 p128 37 C  The phrases This huge effort and peak of fitness refer back to the writer’s point about training very hard … before the flight At exactly the right time refers forward to the fact that the moment had arrived 38 F  The phrase There was no time refers back to the time reference how long we had to wait We were too busy … in the sentence following the gap explains why there was no time to think or to feel frightened 39 A  The crew’s arrangement not to have anything to refers back to the fact that previous crews had a lot to and would get behind schedule because of the amount … they had to handle This allowed us refers back to the fact that the crew had nothing to ANSWER KEY 40 D  The phrase Not only … but … gives examples introduced by the phrase So much can go wrong, and this is emphasized further following the gap: To add to the pressure …  41 E  The paragraph describes leaving the craft and stepping onto the surface of Mars The question of what it was really going to be like is answered with it turned out to be … following the gap 42 G  The word that refers back to plant the flag The fact that they had never rehearsed this act is echoed in the phrase Everything else had been planned in great detail, but not this, which follows the gap Part 7 p130 43 B  The writer describes how … at the age of eight Frances was performing in front of famous musicians [and] didn’t show the slightest sign of nerves 44 A  Natalia says: I’d love to all the normal things that other girls my age get up to, but it’s simply no longer possible 45 B  Frances says: I hope my music is not only pleasant to listen to, but also worth playing The writer states this is what drives her to ensure that every piece of music she writes allows each individual instrument to play an important part 46 C  Jenny says being on stage doesn’t come naturally to her: I have to work really hard at it, and I feel really selfconscious 47 D  The writer says Jasmine’s fans are curious to find out what experiences have led to her songs, but [she’s] not going to reveal anything 48 C  Jenny says: I used to have some really weird and scary dreams, and still occasionally But I suppose that can also be an inspiration when you’re writing music 49 A  Natalia’s always been able to sing, but can’t explain where she gets her talent from: I don’t have any relatives who are even slightly musical 50 D  Jasmine says: It’s always good to have something to fall back on if your career doesn’t take off 51 D  Jasmine says: I think everyone should have their own relationship with the music It isn’t mine any more The main thing is that everyone gets from it what they want to 52 A  Natalia says: … I didn’t get any encouragement One of my relatives completely disapproved of my passion for music … Writing Part 1 p132 Question The answer should address these points: Content  The essay should discuss the positive and/or negative aspects of part-time work for students 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 The essay should 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 express opinion, express contrast, make additional points, evaluate, and conclude Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Examiner’s commentary Content  The candidate answers the question very competently, putting forward both advantages and disadvantages of students having a part-time job and coming to a clear conclusion The target reader would be fully informed as to the writer’s views on part-time jobs for students although the candidate does not fully develop their own idea as the third content point 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 formal throughout and the topic is treated in an appropriate way Balanced views and opinions are given, and the candidate also suggests scenarios to support certain views Both straightforward and more complex, abstract ideas are communicated clearly to the reader This was only the beginning of an amazing evening dedicate to sir MacDuck Jr birthday The host could taste a variaty of exotic food from Brazil to Chinese dishes The main course was a delicious chicken cooked with orange sauce The best course was the dessert The table where all sweets were laing was 30 meter long A 50 Element’s orchestra had the hard job; to entertain the people for more than hours, making a relaxed ambiance The castel was very candy decorated and lighted with many candles and fireplaces People could move inside the court and go to the top of the main tower and enjoy a beautiful view over the city MacDuck Jr has recived a lot of presents but the most significant was a new Bugatti Veyron in value of million of Pounds At the End Everyone was satisfied, in perticular, MacDuck Senior who said ‘The majority age is the most important birthday in our live, furtunatly happen only once!’ (192 words) Examiner’s commentary Content  Unfortunately, the candidate has misinterpreted the question and invented a story about a party for a fictional character There is no reference to the candidate helping to organize the party and so the answer is largely irrelevant Communicative achievement  The register is appropriate for a story but probably not for an article The target reader would not be informed about a party which the candidate helped to organize, as this is clearly a story rather than an account of an actual event This would make a rather negative impression on the reader Organization  Some linking words and phrases are used successfully, but there is no great range The paragraphing is sometimes not very logical, with two short paragraphs about the food when one would have been sufficient Language  There are several minor language errors, but they rarely prevent the writer’s ideas from being communicated clearly Question Organization  One of the candidate’s strengths is an ability to use a wide variety of linking words and phrases which help the essay flow quite impressively (whereas, on the one hand, furthermore, [another] advantage is that …, on balance, apart from that, otherwise) Content  The story should begin with the sentence provided and include a description and a surprise Language  There is a fairly good range of grammar and vocabulary on display (in order not to have any distraction, their best in their exams, otherwise you are wasting your time) There are a number of non-impeding errors which not distract the reader or lead to the possibility of misunderstandings Language  Narrative tenses, description Part 2 p133 Question Content  The article should describe a memorable party that the candidate helped to organize Communicative achievement  Neutral language Article format, with a magazine reader as the target reader Organization  Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate Language  Describing, comparing, explaining, giving reasons Sample answer On Saturday, just after the sunrise, more than 2000 invited people could enjoy a spectacular firework above the ‘Chataux du Vin’ in Cambridge ANSWER KEY Communicative achievement  Neutral language Story format Organization  Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate Sample answer It was 15 of December when every English school in Cambridge was making a important exam as well know as CFE for all the foreign students There was Emlily from Spain trying to her best, but this time she was worried because she really wanted to pass it Two days before, everybody in the classroom was asking to the teacher who they could to improve their english as well as to feel more confidence about their knowledge, but nothing was enough for them because the time was coming so fast that nobody could imagine before Emily made a shock question to the teacher ‘what would happen if I decided not to take the CFE next December?’ Everybody was in silence for a minute and suddenly the teacher answered: ‘I think everyone have every chance to it, and I am sure, each one can it! leave the experience!’ In that moment, she (Emily) realized if she didn’t take action now, it would be too late (168 words) Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Answer key Sample answer Most people think that students should work in a part-time job while they are studying in the university, whereas from the point of view of others, students must be concentrate on their studies in order to not have any distraction I will discuss both points of view and express my own opinion On the one hand, if students have the oportunity to have a part-time job, and if this job is related with their studies, it is useful for them, as well as, they can improve their personal skills Furthermore, an other advantage is that it will not be dificult for them to get a job after they degree so, they have the experience and they know how to the work On the other hand, sometimes, when students start to work, they don’t have time enough to study and in consequence, they can not their best in their exams In fact, there are a lot of students who have this problem On balance, I believe that to have a part-time job while you are a student, it is positive because you can earn your own money Apart from that, this job should have a relation with yours knowledge, otherwise you are wasting your time (206 words) Examiner’s commentary Content  Although this is a reasonable attempt at telling an interesting story which might appeal to the student readers, it ends, instead of beginning, with the words: She realized that if she didn’t take action now, it would be too late It does include the two content points required, however Answer key Communicative achievement  The register is consistently appropriate for a story of this kind The target reader would be able to follow the storyline, but might be confused by the fact that the story does not begin in the way the question requires Organization  The paragraphing is clear and there are some basic linking words and phrases (but, two days before, and suddenly) Language  The candidate has an adequate rather than a wide range of vocabulary and structure There are a number of non-impeding errors (making an important exam, made a shock question, everyone have every chance to it, leave the experience) However, the narrative is mainly coherent Question Content  The email should respond to the questions in Alison’s email Communicative achievement  Informal language Email format Organization  Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate Language  Giving opinions, making recommendations, giving details Sample answer Hi Alison, Thanks, I’ve got an email from you I’m realy glad you’ve decided to write about my country when you’ll a school project I’m sure that’s a good idea because Russia is beautiful country with the most interesting culture and very friendly people In my opinion you have a good opportunity to an exellent project I’ll introduce you to my uncle which is a professor of Moscow university He’s really nice and friendly person besides he’s lecturer of Russian history in university Perhaps he’ll help you You can email him for more information You could write lots about the different food we eat in Russia, and the special kinds of things we for different celebrations You can find out lots about our culture online But there are some very good books about Russia, too I will find out their names in English and email you later Love, (name) (152 words) Examiner’s commentary Content  The writer refers to the questions in Alison’s email about learning the language and a popular festival, but does not directly answer them Communicative achievement  The register is consistently appropriate for an email to a friend A fairly positive impression would be made on the reader present tense when talking about future time and articles are sometimes omitted), but they not impede communication or cause confusion Question Content  The review should open with a general introduction and then go on to give a description of the book, mentioning setting, subject and characters (but not giving away the ending) The candidate should then give their reaction to various aspects of the story and explain why they felt this way The review should conclude with a summary of the candidate’s impression of the book, and perhaps a recommendation Communicative achievement  Neutral or informal with school students as the target reader Organization  Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate Language  Describing, giving opinions, giving reasons, recommending Sample answer While it may not have won many awards, [title of set text] is one of the best loved pieces of young adult fiction from the last decade The characters are believable, well-drawn, and the heart-rending story will stay with you for quite some time In addition, unlike many novels written for a younger audience, the dialogue never feels forced When characters speak you belive that these are things real people say to one another As the story begins, we meet Eli, an orphan who is surviving in a dark and dangerous world using his wits alone He has somehow managed to escape from the overlords who patrol the outer limits of the city In time, we find out just how he does this I really enjoyed the story, and found its various plot turns convincing However, if I have one complaint, it is that sometimes the author’s descriptions of the surroundings are so detailed that the pace of the story slows down All in all, the story is well worth reading, as it shows an imaginative and gripping version of a future which may, if we are not careful, someday happen (189 words) Examiner’s commentary Content  The candidate has followed the instructions and fully answered the question about their opinion of the book The review expands on the ideas, giving examples from the book Communicative achievement  The candidate uses the conventions of the task with 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 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 (However, if I have one complaint …, All in all …) Organization  Each paragraph has a clear focus and the organization of ideas is logical Simple linking devices are used, though there is no great variety Listening Language  The candidate uses a wide range of vocabulary and structures, which is sufficient to answer the question reasonably well There are a number of errors (which and who are confused, when is used with will rather than the A  The speaker says I used to be really nervous, but Alex could see that and he helped me get over it and adds that his advice made a big difference to me ANSWER KEY Part 1 p134 Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools ANSWER KEY today’s equipment … it’s never been easier to pick up This contrast shows the equipment is easy to use B  The man says there were very few coaches to start with, but that it’s a different story now, suggesting that teachers are readily available Part 2 p135 4%/four per cent  The adverb approximately indicates that a statistic is required … only about 4% ever us any harm 10 ants  The phrase insects such as indicates that nouns, as examples, are required … bees, beetles and ants, and many of them are in serious danger of extinction 11 chocolate  The phrase such as indicates that a noun is required … most of us would miss special treats like chocolate, which wouldn’t exist without the work of insects Special treats is a synonym here for luxuries 12 butterfly  The definite article indicates that a noun is required … I am even more worried about the butterfly …  Worried about is a synonym for concerned about 13 fields  The phrase sites such as indicates that nouns, as examples, are required Conservation societies are working to look after important wildlife sites, such as fields or woods … Sites are places 14 roads  The preposition on indicates that a noun is required Almost every day we hear of plans for new roads that will destroy environments that are home to many unusual insects 15 birds  The determiner large numbers of indicates that a noun is required … two centuries ago we wiped out countless birds … Countless and large numbers are synonyms 16 variety  The indefinite article indicates that a noun is required We should give them a variety of flowers rich in nectar all year round 17 nest/nests  The possessive adjective indicates that a noun is required … bees also need shelter and somewhere to construct their nests If you can leave an area of your garden a bit wild … Construct and build are synonyms 18 survey  The indefinite article indicates that a noun is required … your listeners can help by participating in our survey Participate is a synonym for take part in, meaning to be involved in Part 3 p136 19 D  The speaker says a lot of people around us were laughing so loudly that it began to get a bit annoying and that I’ve tried hard since to work out why it didn’t work for me, but I still can’t figure it out To figure something out means to try to understand it 20 H  The speaker says that the theatre is a rather small place, but that added to the whole feel of the play and also says that the theatre has great seating, and … you can see the stage clearly from just about anywhere, and everyone feels involved in the action 21 G  The speaker says that the play falls apart towards the end and you start to lose track of what’s going on and it didn’t make any sense at all If you lose track of something, you cannot understand it 22 C  The speaker says that the play was amusing, exciting and occasionally rather sad and adds that you just never knew what you were going to experience next 23 B  The speaker says that the main actor … was very poor, which made the whole experience very dull A, E, and F are not used Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Answer key B  The speaker says that even though he had such a big influence on me, he wouldn’t acknowledge it – he’s far too modest for that C  The speaker says that some stars don’t find the time to talk to young people like me, but he did B  The speaker talks about the key events in the development of the library in sequence, including dates A  The speaker mentions a gift of priceless manuscripts and Bodley’s generosity, but no amount of money is mentioned C  The speaker mentions a few objects such as books … coins and medals, sculptures and pictures, but this is not the main point of the talk A  The speaker says I don’t have to be worried about him being dishonest B  The speaker says I can’t shout at him if something goes wrong, but does not mention his manager/dad ever getting angry C  The speaker says my dad obviously wants what’s best for me and that he’s often been advised not to trust anyone but does not mention his manager/dad giving him advice B  The speaker says to my astonishment, I was announced as the overall winner Astonishment means surprise A  The speaker says The whole audience clapped as I got onto the stage to collect my award, but she does not say how she felt about this attention from the audience C  The speaker says I couldn’t believe it wasn’t a mistake, suggesting that she was happily surprised, but not that she shouldn’t be there C  The speaker says that unlike with other gift ideas, you don’t have to worry about someone being at home … as they will fit through any letter box A  The speaker says there are several delicious and unusual flavours, but doesn’t suggest this makes them different to other chocolates B  The speaker says that their special packaging keeps the handmade chocolates in perfect condition for up to a week, but doesn’t suggest that this makes them different to other chocolates A  The man says that you’re more likely to get a table if you don’t have an exact time in mind, suggesting that flexibility is important B  The man says it’s a good idea if you call straight after lunch – that’s when many customers cancel at the last minute, suggesting that booking a long time in advance is less effective C  The man says that it pays to be polite when booking a table, but does not suggest that you will be speaking to a waiter in this case C  The woman says that she is never without a camera If you are never without something, you always have it with you A  The woman says I don’t always tell people what I’m doing, suggesting that she doesn’t always ask permission B  The woman says that she sometimes goes to the park in fine weather, but adds that she is sometimes happier taking shots indoors C  The man says it only takes a few hours to learn the basics, and that with today’s equipment and teaching techniques, it’s never been easier to pick up A  The man says that the original boards were made of wood, which made the sport hard to but that with Answer key Part 4 p137 24 A  Julie says I knew I had to make some changes I’d been working in the same place … for over twelve years B  Julie says she had to make some changes but not that her work involved many changes C  Julie says I got on quite well with the people I worked with 25 C  Julie says The worst thing … was not being able to speak to anyone A  Julie mentions that it was raining and a bit cold, but this refers to diving in the sea a few days later B  Julie says it was really difficult, but not with reference to her physical strength 26 B  Julie says the accommodation itself was a lot less sophisticated than I’d expected A  Julie says that she was really worried that [she] might not be up to the diving once [she] was out there, but not that she actually had any problems C  Julie says she was worried that she wouldn’t get along with the other people but that they all got on really well 27 C  Julie says that they carried out surveys on certain sea mammals and sharks, and kept records of the number of fish that could be found in the coastal waters A  Julie says that they kept records of the number of fish, not that they made recordings B  Julie says that they taught the local children how to care for the wonderful wildlife, not that they taught them how to dive 28 B  Julie says I wanted even more of the independence that I’d discovered A  Julie says that she could never fit into [her] old routine again C  Julie says she was convinced that [she] could something similar to her friend, but not that she wanted to travel with her 29 A  Julie says I didn’t think I had much hope of getting a job, because competition is so intense B  Julie says that she didn’t waste any time looking for a job, not that she didn’t have enough time to so C  She says that meeting the man who hired her was like a very relaxed interview, not that she has any problem with interviews in general 30 C  Julie says I spend my days doing what I always wanted to and what I’m good at A  Julie mentions her nine-to-five routine back in Scotland, but not the routine involved in her current job B  Julie says I have a house near where I work Practice Test Reading and Use of English Part 1 p140 C  risen  There is no object here, and the only verb of the four options that does not require an object in this context is rise A  published  When books are published, they become available to purchase We can also say that books are manufactured, but this refers to the process of making them ANSWER KEY B  growing  The verb grow collocates with popularity D  alone  Only alone has the meaning required here of being without anyone else physically present C  invention  The meaning here is something which has been newly created D  opportunity  The expression is give (somebody) the opportunity to …, meaning a chance that he/she did not previously have C  simply  The meaning here is just, used for emphasis B  make  The verb make completes the collocation with a difference A  spare  Only spare can complete the expression has a (moment, minute, etc.) to spare, meaning that this time is available Part 2 p141 that  The reference is to a particular past point in time, so that is needed had  The missing word forms part of the passive verb form to be put; the reference to two years earlier means it must be the past perfect form had been 10 which  The non-defining relative pronoun referring back to the Space Station is which 11 for/over  Several more years refers to how long work on the Space Station will last, so for not during is needed Over can also be used here with a similar meaning to for 12 many  A determiner is needed here after so; different countries is plural, so many not much is correct Several countries are mentioned, so few would not be a logical answer 13 there  This completes the present perfect form of there is, which refers to visits and is therefore plural (have been) 14 where/that  In this defining relative clause, the relative pronoun refers to a place 15 on  The correct preposition with planets is on, as it refers to the surface of the planet 16 in  The preposition in completes the expression in particular, meaning especially Part 3 p142 turning  The article a indicates that a noun is needed, and off the main road is the clue to the meaning 17 impressive  The determiner most and the noun phrase national parks indicates that an adjective is needed 18 length  The article the indicates that the noun form is needed 19 scenery  The superlative the best before the gap indicates that a noun is needed, and since there is no other noun after the gap, the missing word cannot be an adjective 20 rainfall  The superlative the lowest before the gap indicates that a noun is needed The compound rainfall means the amount of rain that falls 21 extraordinary  An adjective is needed here to describe contrast; the context indicates that it means surprising or striking 22 incredibly  An adverb is needed here to describe the verb clause that follows, i.e large numbers of penguins live 23 height  The article a indicates that the noun form is required 24 entrance/entry  The collocation entrance/entry fee, meaning how much you pay to go in, is completed with the noun modifier entrance or entry Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Part 4 p143 Part 5 p144 31 B  Paragraph The writer states: It gets relatively little attention from conservationists, and the reason is obvious … it tends to be the more glamorous of the world’s threatened natural wonders that enjoy all the fuss Also, when an ugly and hard-to-love plant is under similar threat, the result is silence Ugly and hard-to-love are synonymous with unattractive A  Welwitschia is fast disappearing and is under similar threat to other natural wonders which are facing extinction C  Welwitschia is found in the great Namib Desert of southern Africa, but it is not suggested that its location is a factor in the reaction to it becoming scarce D  It gets relatively little attention from conservationists, not none at all 32 B  Paragraph The writer states: most astonishing of all is welwitschia’s longevity Longevity means how long something lives A  The plant can be enormous (twenty feet wide and six feet tall), but most astonishing is its longevity C  The plant is poisonous to most animals, but most astonishing is its longevity D  The plant can survive for more than 2,000 years, but there is no suggestion of great change over this period 33 C  Paragraph The writer states: because it seemed so different from other plants, welwitschia was placed in its own family A  It was partly named after Friedrich Welwitsch, but this refers to the naming, not the classification, and there is no suggestion of difficulty B  There is no reference to animals or the plant’s resemblance to one D  The writer says: In fact, it does have something in common with two other plant families, but the connections between them are distant 34 C  Paragraph The writer states: welwitschia adapted to its harsh desert setting, where there is now little competition ANSWER KEY A  Most of the plants from the Jurassic era … died out or evolved into other species, so this cannot be the reason for its survival B  It lives in an arid landscape, but we are not told that it lives in only one part of the region D  The writer says the landscape has grown even more hostile down the centuries, so conditions have become more, not less, extreme 35 B  Paragraph The writer states: The answer lies in the fogs … Those hideous leaves might seem repellent to us, but they serve the purpose of sucking moisture out of the fog A The Benguela sea current is mentioned, which helps to create the mist but does not supply water directly to welwitschia C  The Namib Desert is exceptionally hot and dry, so the ground could not supply enough water D  A stream of cool water is mentioned, but it is an ocean stream, not a river, and it does not directly supply welwitschia with water 36 B  Paragraph The writer states: the more I stare at the mess of sunburnt leaves in front of me, the fonder I become of it A  It is the plant that has an air of shy sadness, not the writer C  The expression The funny thing is … refers to something strange, not amusing D  The writer still describes it as a mess, and in the final sentence implies that it has no beauty Part 6 p146 37 D  The use of But shows a contrast with the previous sentence, and one refers back to bags: plastic as opposed to Baskets, rucksacks and reusable bags 38 G  Instead shows that the missing sentence contrasts with the previous sentence, i.e bags made of materials that not harm the environment contrasts with plastic bags Lexical links include butchers, supermarkets and traders with stores 39 A  It refers to the television documentary which she, Ms Hosking, had made The reference to town’s traders is reflected in the synonymous phrase local shopkeepers in the sentence which follows 40 E  The time link Since then refers to May at the end of the previous paragraph For instance introduces examples of the thousands of calls Ms Hosking took from across the world 41 F  Her food store refers back to Julie Davies, who is introduced as a shopkeeper Used to contrasts with now, as does 200 plastic bags every day with barely … two reusable bags a day 42 C  The use of however shows a contrast, which is between just a six-month experiment in the preceding sentence and no turning back in the missing sentence The pronoun they in the next sentence refers to the local residents and shop owners Part 7 p148 43 C  … the water tended to leak out onto the motor, causing it to short-circuit and break down 44 A  … although the earliest models were considered luxury items, prices soon fell to a level that many families could afford Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Answer key don’t always have to  The personalized form of the passive structure it isn’t … necessary becomes the active you don’t have to 25 there was a fall in/saw a fall in/we saw a fall in  The noun fall, meaning a reduction (in something), is used here in the passive structure there was a fall in; the use of a subject we is optional To see a fall in means to experience a fall in 26 been looking forward to meeting  The past perfect continuous form of look forward to + -ing is needed here 27 could hardly see  Here, the adverb hardly means almost not Could is used to express past ability 28 what time she had/she’d got  In reported speech, the simple past becomes the past perfect 29 if/whether this book belongs to  The structure needed here is noun (thing) + belong(s) to + noun (person) 30 may have broken down  It’s possible that + simple past changes to the past modal form may have + past participle Answer key 45 D  Nowadays, more American homes have them than any other electrical item 46 A  … such as … the restaurants on board ocean liners … 47 B  … it was the department stores which first attracted large numbers of people … 48 D  … several decades would pass before one was actually built 49 A  … took up so much space that they were hardly practicable for the average home 50 C  … a built-in water heater that used either gas or electricity 51 B  … as cold air is denser, or ‘heavier’ than warmer air, it tended not to mix with the air above, staying close to the floor where it froze people’s feet 52 A  … he suddenly noticed that a bar of chocolate in his pocket had melted The radar waves, he realized, had done it manipulation and lots of commercials So, I think we should all throw our televisions away, and today! (242 words) Writing Language  There are a number of basic errors, but a wide range of structures and vocabulary are attempted and some awareness of less common lexical items is evident Part 1 p150 Examiner’s commentary Content  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 formal throughout and the topic is treated in an appropriate way Balanced views and opinions are given, and the candidate also suggests scenarios to support certain views Both straightforward and more complex, abstract ideas are communicated clearly to the reader Organization  The text is well organized, and a range of cohesive devices, including reference and substitution, is used with some skill and flexibility Question The answer should address these points: Part 2 p151 Content  The essay should give an opinion on whether we should give up watching television Question 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 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 Since it was invented, television today, more than ever causes many controverses In it’s first days, television was considered as one of the biggest tehnological achievement Miracle was born and untill today has changed the lives of many people In that time, watching the first human step on the Moon, Liverpool pop attraction Beetles, or president Kennedy’s speech, helped television to be seen as one of the greatest invention by humans Television has shown people the places they would never see and emotions they would never experience As the time changed, the television also changed It became the most popular, and also the most cheapest way of entertainment But, there is a huge money involve in it The hole families instead of spending their time together, watch television and not communicate There is also a problem with a large number of violente films and series which have great influence on children left alone without any control Television is this days also wildly used for political propaganda Entertainments TV shows daily bring new instant stars, who without any true value become a role model for young people So, although TV certanly used to have an educational role and gave people the opportunity to experience the things they would never see, today television has definitly lost that role and become just a range of shallow entertainment, political ANSWER KEY The answers should address these points: Content  The story should follow on from the given prompt and is a submission for the college newspaper 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 As soon as Carol arrived at her new school, she knew there was something strange about the place and some of the people She was terribly afraid of introducing herself because when she came into the classroom, everyone stared her and nobody said anything However she tried speaking with bearing to shake her legs Later, her teacher let Carol sat next to a boy whose name was Mike Carol said to him ‘Hi’ but he never talked with her Now Carol was almost crying and she began to regret why she was there Then she found a piece of paper on the wall, ‘Don’t talk with classmate unless teachers allow.’ Soon, she beged her mother, ‘I never go back that school any more! That’s completly abnormal!’ Carol expected that her mother accepted her demand but she just said, ‘No, you mustn’t’ She’d been wailing all night As she entered the classroom next morning, everyone shutted, ‘Surprise!!’ That day was April 1st Though Carol never forgive them Not all lies are forgiven even it’s the April fools (176 words) Examiner’s commentary Content  The story follows on from the prompt in an appropriate way Communicative achievement  Simple sentences are accurate, but errors occur with verb patterns and tense use However, errors not prevent communication and the candidate uses a range of fairly complex structures Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Organization  Cohesion is variable The sentences not flow naturally and there is limited flexibility A range of cohesive devices is used, and the narrative is well structured and holds the reader’s interest Language  There is a wide range of vocabulary A number of less common lexical items are used with some skill, and a variety of structures are attempted Question Content  The letter should describe the candidate’s school and his or her fellow students Organization  Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate Language  Describing, explaining Sample answer Dear Jen I’m really excited for your visit in my country! We could spend a lot of time togheter But when are you going to arrive? I’m really looking forward to see you again! I recommend you to study in my school, we have many big classrooms and each class has about ten people, it’s a good number because you can interact directly with the teacher but also with other students My class is great! There are a lot of people from all around the world! From Spain to Kazakhstan you can learn many things about different country! The teacher is great too, professional and comprehensive at the same time! In the school we have several facilities as a computer room with free Internet access, a kitchen if you need to cook your own meals and a small library in which you can find many books, CDs, or also DVDs to practice your English It would be great if you could come and enjoy our class because you’ll find it absolutely amazing and of course we’ll have more time to stay togheter! Hope to hear from you soon (188 words) Examiner’s commentary Content  All parts of the question are addressed, and there are some good examples and plenty of expansion 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 good use is made of rhetorical questions to generate interest in the opening Organization  The structure of the text is well organized and coherent There is a good introduction to the topic, and the final closing sentence invites people to try the film themselves Within the paragraphs, there is some use of cohesive devices and linking words, but the punctuation is also effective and appropriate for the age of the target reader Language  A range of everyday vocabulary specific to the topic is used appropriately Question Content  All points are addressed fully expanded on, with some good examples and plenty of realistic detail Content  The first paragraph should briefly describe the background to the story and introduce the character that the candidate finds most interesting The second paragraph should describe in some detail the chosen character and explain his/her role in the story The third paragraph should give the candidate’s reasons for choosing this character, with examples where appropriate Communicative achievement  Register is consistently appropriate throughout The target reader would be informed Communicative achievement  Neutral or formal language Article format 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 Organization  Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate Examiner’s commentary Language  Errors occur when more complex language is attempted, but these are minimal and not affect the overall quality of the answer A wide range of relevant vocabulary is used with some flexibility, including a number of less common lexical items Question Content  The review should give a description of a favourite film, explain why the candidate likes it and offer a recommendation Communicative achievement  Neutral language Review format Suitable for readers of an English-language website Organization  Clear organization and paragraphing, with use of linking words where appropriate Language  Describing, explaining, giving reasons, recommending ANSWER KEY Language  Describing a character, giving opinions, giving reasons Sample answer Based on a folktale from Iran, [title of set text] is a thrilling exploration of a boy’s journey from the streets of Isfahan to the Shah’s palace As we follow Kazem’s progress from poverty to power, we see the wealth of an empire grow, and the various plots which keep everything under control One of the key characters in the palace is Omid, the librarian Omid has lived in the palace for most of his life, He enjoys his job because he has access to all the books which the people of the country are not allowed to read Although he is wise, some people think he is an old fool who likes reading stories He is also quite greedy, and spends a lot of time in the palace kitchens, where he first meets Kazem I would say that Omid is the most interesting character in the book because he understands the power of words, and Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Answer key Communicative achievement  Informal language Letter format Suitable for an English-speaking penfriend Sample answer Are you looking for a great film to watch with your friends or family? I recently saw Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them I’d really recommend it to anyone who likes fantasy films, and particularly to fans of Harry Potter It was written by JK Rowling But it’s not just about wizards There’s plenty of action, too The story is about a magician called Newt Scamander, hunting monsters which have escaped in New York The actor who plays Newt is Eddie Redmayne He’s one of the best young British actors around The story is very exciting, and the special effects are brilliant The monsters all look very realistic But the thing I liked the most was the way that they used the history of the city, and real life events to add to the story It made a fantastic film more believable So why not take a look? (149 words) how saying the right thing can be the difference between success and failure Omid also shows that to be strong you need to understand different cultures, and use this knowledge to make the world a better place (193 words) Examiner’s commentary Answer key Content  The candidate has followed the instructions and fully answered the question, describing the character they find most interesting The essay expands on the ideas, giving examples from the book Communicative achievement  The candidate uses the conventions of the task well The target reader’s attention is held throughout Organization  On the whole, the text is coherent and is well organized into paragraphs A range of linking words and cohesive devices is employed 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 Listening Part 1 p152 C  The speaker mentions a tiny little island which disappears completely and reappears when the level goes down again A  When a boat comes along … you get waves running along the banks and the sand on the bottom gets stirred up for a while The speaker does not mention this in the context of rain, and the boat does not sink B  The speaker says that the river’s never been known to flood the surrounding area A  The boy has grown taller so quickly that the trousers don’t even come down to [his] ankles; therefore they are too short B  His mother has just washed them, so we know they are not dirty now C  It is his sweater that is very tight, not his trousers: … don’t put that sweater on … it’s very tight on you now B  He lives in quite a dangerous area and wants to be able to protect myself if attacked A  Everyone he knows said that he must be mad and that it was a sport for stupid people, so we know that his friends not box C  He says that he was already very fit, because [he] used to gymnastics B  The woman says: that’s exactly my own view, so we know she is agreeing with the other person She also says she would’ve done just the same A  The other person’s boss asked him/her to work on Saturday morning The speaker does not ask the other person to anything C  She is talking to the other person about his/her boss, so when she says He has no right she is criticizing the other person’s boss A  They are going walking in the mountains and snow is forecast The man is worried because heavy falling snow can make it difficult to see where you’re going, and because it’d be easy to take a wrong turning B  The woman thinks the footpaths will be well-marked, so that there won’t be any danger of falling over the edge C  The man says that low temperatures don’t bother him ANSWER KEY A  The woman is thinking of selling her car and says to her friend: … I’m wondering what you would in my situation B  She says that when she uses his car, she adds more pollution to the atmosphere and [makes] climate change that bit worse, but she is not apologizing for it C  She thinks about the prospect of having to wait for the bus every morning, so she is thinking about the future, not making a suggestion B  The main reason the man chose the flat is that Above all … there’s plenty of light because it’s got great big windows facing south A  The flat is much bigger than his studio, but he would have liked somewhere with another bedroom C  The new flat is well furnished … with fitted cupboards throughout and a new three-piece-suite in the living room, but this is not the main reason he chose it C  The receptionist is going to have some clean towels sent up, and she promises that the hotel staff will everything possible to ensure you have a pleasant stay A  She says we’ll everything possible, meaning the hotel staff, which includes her boss, but she is not talking to her boss B  She says we’ll everything possible, meaning the hotel staff, which includes the hotel cleaners, but she is not actually talking to a member of staff Part 2 p153 twenty-two feet/22 feet  The adjectival phrase … long requires a number to complete it … I’ve actually seen one of twenty-two feet on a beach near here 10 May  The phrase from September to requires another month to complete the time reference … the warmer weather … continues until May, as a rule 11 eggs  The possessive adjective indicates that a noun is required … the females may be a little way inland guarding their eggs, and that makes them very aggressive if disturbed Very aggressive and dangerous are synonyms 12 bank/river bank/riverbank  The definite article indicates that a noun is required … if you’re walking near a river in an area where they’re likely to be, don’t go near the river bank 13 legs  The possessive adjective indicates that a noun is required … it may be tempting … to put your legs over the side, in the water, to cool off Don’t it 14 signs/warning signs  The definite article indicates that a noun is required People … pay no attention to warning signs, and suddenly there’s another victim Pay no attention and take no notice, meaning don’t think about something enough, are synonyms 15 nest  The possessive ’s indicates that a noun is required I woke up in the morning to discover I’d spent the night right next to a nest To discover and find are synonyms 16 food  The determiner bits of requires a noun to complete the phrase Bits of means pieces, or scraps … make sure the ground around your tent is free of scraps of food, as these can attract hungry crocodiles 17 cattle  A noun as the direct object is required … here their most common big target is cattle … A target is something which you aim for, or attack 18 once  An adverb is required to complete the phrase … a week … other mammals eat many times a week But crocodiles, certainly all those I’ve observed, so once every seven days Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Part 3 p154 Part 4 p155 24 B  Kate says the scheme is open to anyone, as long as you buy an access card A  It is possible to buy a card for one day, a week or twelve months C  The scheme is open to residents and visitors alike, so it is not restricted to those who live in the city 25 C  Kate says: You don’t have to pay for the first half an hour, though if you use it for more than that the price goes up quite quickly A  Kate says … all the bikes cost the same, so there is no difference depending on the type of bike B  Kate mentions riding around town all day but does not mention any change in cost ANSWER KEY 26 B  Kate says that if the user returns the bike late for any reason, accident, illness or whatever, they lose the deposit, which doesn’t seem right A  Kate thinks that £100 seems a reasonable amount C  The user loses the deposit if the bike isn’t back within twenty-four hours, and Kate can see the point of that 27 A  Kate says that it’s the visitors to the city that are really using them now [as] it’s such a great way to see the sights B People are finding it a great way to get home late at night after public transport has stopped running, but this is not mentioned as an increase in popularity C  Kate says that the bikes still haven’t replaced the school run and that kids tend to have their own bikes, so they would not be interested in hiring them 28 B  Kate says: … at the stations, when everyone rushes off the trains in the morning, only a certain number can actually get one – the demand is not met A  There are far more than are necessary at the bottom [of hills] C  Kate mentions out-of-town areas where lots of motorists park, but she does not mention city centre car parks 29 C  Kate thinks the majority of those using bikes have previously used the buses, underground or trains A  Kate mentions journeys that are too far to walk, but she does not say anything about people going into the city on foot B  Kate says that the scheme has changed attitudes towards the car rather than actually getting people out of their vehicles, and that drivers use cars because they’re comfortable, but she does not say that most people used their cars to go into the city 30 C  The increased number of cyclists will force the council to increase the number of lanes for them on the city’s streets quite considerably A  Kate does not think it’s realistic to talk about it leading to a car-free central area B  The increased number of cycle lanes will mean that eventually there just won’t be room on those streets for all the cars using them now Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools Answer key 19 H  The speaker rarely spoke [Russian] to anyone and found it difficult to find someone to talk to in Russian or get used to real conversation 20 A  The speaker had a look at the booklet that came with the new MP3 player, but couldn’t make sense of it [as] none of the sentences seemed to mean anything 21 F  The speaker moved to England and found that it wasn’t easy to get used to driving on the other side of the road The speaker also says it was strange to have the handbrake and the gearstick on the left 22 C  The speaker found the home information technology course time-consuming and became tired of all the mental effort required The speaker called the organization’s information line to try and get some advice, but that was also much harder than it sounded 23 B  The speaker was learning karate and often had problems doing patterns, the series of movements you to practise different kinds of defence and attack The speaker says: I kept forgetting which order I had to them in D, E, and G are not used ... parties Answer key ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools © Copyright Oxford University Press for Practice Tests 1–6 ANSWER KEY Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First. .. tennis and tennis, and I’d like to learn to play squash Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools © Copyright Oxford University Press Answer key Part 3 p47 Part 2 Article p39 ANSWER KEY. .. heard of before It was called Parent Swap, and was quite different from the others Oxford Preparation & Practice for B2 First for Schools © Copyright Oxford University Press Answer key The answer