Create a B2 Essay
✅ What is a B2 Essay?
A B2 First (FCE) essay is a formal and structured piece of writing in which you present and develop your personal opinion on a general topic. It is always Task 1 in the Writing paper and it is compulsory.
You must organise your ideas clearly, develop arguments logically and use a formal register (no abbreviations or informal expressions).
🧩 Recommended Structure for a B2 Essay
| Part | Function | Useful Phrase |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction | Introduce the topic | This essay will discuss… / Nowadays, many people believe that… |
| Main Body 1 | First argument | Firstly… / One important reason is that… |
| Main Body 2 | Second argument | On the other hand… / Another point to consider is… |
| Conclusion | Restate opinion clearly | To conclude… / In my view… / I believe that… |
✨ Key Expressions for a High-Scoring Essay
- It is widely believed that…
- There is no doubt that…
- Firstly / Secondly / Finally
- In contrast / However
- For example / Such as
- All things considered
- I strongly believe that…
✍️ Essay B2 – Example 1
You have had a class discussion about the environment. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the causes of environmental problems and say whether you believe they can be solved or not.
Write about:
• Transport
• Rivers and seas
• Factories
Write your essay in 140–190 words.
Introduction
Nowadays, environmental problems are affecting every country in the world. In this essay, I will talk about some of the main causes and whether I believe we can solve them.
Firstly, transport is one of the biggest contributors to air pollution. Cars, buses and planes release harmful gases into the atmosphere. In addition, traffic jams in big cities make things worse. One possible solution is to use public transport or switch to electric vehicles.
Secondly, many rivers and seas are polluted by waste. Factories and individuals throw rubbish and chemicals into the water. For example, plastic in the ocean kills many fish every year. Governments should create stricter laws to control this.
Finally, factories also cause pollution by burning fossil fuels. However, cleaner technologies are available if companies receive enough support.
To sum up, environmental damage is a serious issue. In my opinion, if we act quickly and responsibly, we can reduce the damage and protect our planet.
✍️ Essay B2 – Example 2
You have had a class discussion about technology and education. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of using technology in the classroom and say whether you think it improves education.
Write about:
• Access to information
• Student motivation
• (your own idea)
Write your essay in 140–190 words.
Introduction
Nowadays, technology is present in almost every aspect of our lives, including education. In this essay, I will discuss its advantages and disadvantages and give my opinion.
On the one hand, technology provides quick access to information. For example, students can find explanations, videos and exercises online in seconds. In addition, digital tools allow learners to study at their own pace.
On the other hand, technology can be a distraction. Some students use their devices for social media instead of concentrating. Furthermore, not all teachers are trained to use digital resources effectively.
To sum up, technology has both positive and negative aspects. In my opinion, when used correctly, it can make education more effective and engaging.
✍️ Essay B2 – Example 3
You have had a class discussion about working while studying. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of having a part-time job during school or university and give your opinion.
Write about:
• Time management
• Money
• (your own idea)
Write your essay in 140–190 words.
Introduction
Nowadays, many students decide to work while studying. In this essay, I will explain the advantages and disadvantages of having a part-time job and give my opinion.
On the one hand, a part-time job helps students improve time management. They must organise their day carefully to balance work and study. In addition, earning money gives them more independence.
On the other hand, working can be stressful, especially during exam periods. For example, some students feel too tired to focus on their studies. As a result, their academic performance may suffer.
To sum up, having a part-time job has benefits and drawbacks. In my opinion, if the job is not too demanding, it can be a valuable experience.
✍️ Essay B2 – Example 4
You have had a class discussion about keeping animals in zoos. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of zoos and say whether you think they should exist.
Write about:
• Protection
• Education
• (your own idea)
Write your essay in 140–190 words.
Introduction
Nowadays, zoos can be found in many countries. In this essay, I will discuss their advantages and disadvantages and give my opinion.
On the one hand, zoos help protect endangered species. They provide safe environments and support reproduction programmes. In addition, they educate people about wildlife conservation.
On the other hand, keeping animals in small spaces can cause stress. For example, some animals cannot behave naturally in captivity. Furthermore, not all zoos maintain high standards of care.
To sum up, zoos have both positive and negative aspects. In my opinion, they should exist only if they focus on conservation and animal welfare.
✍️ Essay B2 – Example 5
You have had a class discussion about using public transport. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of using buses, trains or the metro and say whether more people should use them.
Write about:
• Pollution
• Cost
• (your own idea)
Write your essay in 140–190 words.
Introduction
Nowadays, many cities are trying to reduce traffic and pollution by promoting public transport. In this essay, I will explain its advantages and disadvantages and give my opinion.
On the one hand, public transport helps reduce pollution. For example, buses and trains produce fewer emissions than private cars. In addition, fewer cars on the road means less traffic and cleaner air.
On the other hand, public transport is not always efficient. Sometimes vehicles are late or overcrowded. Furthermore, in rural areas there are often limited options.
To sum up, public transport has clear advantages but also some drawbacks. In my opinion, more people should use it, especially in cities, because it benefits the environment and is usually more affordable.
✍️ Essay B2 – Example 6
You have had a class discussion about exams. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of school exams and give your opinion.
Write about:
• Motivation
• Stress
• (your own idea)
Write your essay in 140–190 words.
Introduction
Nowadays, exams are the most common method of assessing students in schools and universities. In this essay, I will discuss their advantages and disadvantages and give my opinion.
On the one hand, exams can motivate students to study harder. For example, many students revise more seriously when they know a test is coming. In addition, exams can show who has worked consistently.
On the other hand, exams can cause a great deal of stress. Some students become nervous and do not perform well under pressure. As a result, their grades may not reflect their real ability.
To sum up, exams are useful but not perfect. In my opinion, they should be combined with other forms of assessment, such as projects or presentations.
✍️ Essay B2 – Example 7
You have had a class discussion about fast food. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of eating fast food and give your opinion.
Write about:
• Health
• Convenience
• (your own idea)
Write your essay in 140–190 words.
Introduction
Nowadays, fast food is extremely popular, especially among young people. In this essay, I will examine its advantages and disadvantages and give my opinion.
On the one hand, fast food is convenient and inexpensive. For example, it is quick to buy and easy to eat on the go. In addition, it saves time for busy students and workers.
On the other hand, fast food is often unhealthy. It contains high levels of fat, sugar and salt. As a result, eating it regularly can lead to serious health problems.
To sum up, fast food is practical but unhealthy if consumed too often. In my opinion, it is acceptable occasionally, but a balanced diet is much better in the long term.
✍️ Essay B2 – Example 8
You have had a class discussion about learning languages. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of learning a foreign language and say whether it is necessary nowadays.
Write about:
• Travel
• Jobs
• (your own idea)
Write your essay in 140–190 words.
Introduction
Nowadays, many people study foreign languages at school or online. In this essay, I will explain the advantages and disadvantages of learning another language and give my opinion.
On the one hand, speaking a foreign language is extremely useful for travelling. For example, it allows you to communicate with local people and understand different cultures. In addition, it can make your trips more enjoyable and independent.
On the other hand, learning a language requires time and effort. Some people find grammar and pronunciation difficult. Furthermore, not everyone has access to high-quality courses.
To sum up, learning a foreign language can be challenging, but it has many benefits. In my opinion, it is essential in today’s global world because it opens many opportunities.
✍️ Essay B2 – Example 9
You have had a class discussion about social media. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of social media and give your opinion.
Write about:
• Communication
• Privacy
• (your own idea)
Write your essay in 140–190 words.
Introduction
Nowadays, social media plays an important role in daily life, especially for young people. In this essay, I will discuss its positive and negative aspects and give my opinion.
On the one hand, social media improves communication. For example, people can stay in touch with friends and family who live far away. In addition, it allows users to share ideas and information instantly.
On the other hand, social media can create serious privacy problems. Many users share personal data without thinking. Furthermore, it can become addictive and affect mental health.
To sum up, social media has both advantages and disadvantages. In my opinion, it can be very useful if used responsibly and in moderation.
✍️ Essay B2 – Example 10
You have had a class discussion about tourism. Your teacher has now asked you to write an essay.
Write about the advantages and disadvantages of tourism and say whether it is good or bad for local communities.
Write about:
• Money
• Culture
• (your own idea)
Write your essay in 140–190 words.
Introduction
Nowadays, tourism is one of the most important industries in many countries. In this essay, I will examine its advantages and disadvantages and give my opinion.
On the one hand, tourism brings economic benefits. For example, visitors spend money on hotels, restaurants and local businesses. In addition, it creates employment opportunities.
On the other hand, tourism can negatively affect local culture and the environment. Traditional customs may disappear, and popular destinations often suffer from pollution and overcrowding.
To sum up, tourism has both positive and negative consequences. In my opinion, it is beneficial if it is managed responsibly and sustainably.