Writing
1 h 20 min · 2 tasks · 140–190 words each · 20% of the overall mark. Part 1 is a compulsory essay; Part 2 is a choice of four genres.
Five genres
| Genre | Part | Reader | Purpose | Register |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Essay | Part 1 (compulsory) | Teacher | Discuss a question with two given prompts + one of your own. | Neutral / semi-formal |
| Article | Part 2 (choice) | Magazine / website readers | Engage and inform, with voice and a hook. | Semi-formal / lively |
| Email / Letter | Part 2 (choice) | Specified reader | Respond to a prompt — request, reply, advise, complain. | Matches reader (formal ↔ informal) |
| Review | Part 2 (choice) | Magazine / website readers | Describe, evaluate and recommend. | Semi-formal with personal voice |
| Report | Part 2 (choice) | Boss, principal, group | Inform and recommend — headings, neutral tone. | Formal / neutral |
Assessment scales (each 0–5, applied to each task)
Content
All content points covered, fully on-task, relevant to the reader.
Band 0–5
Communicative Achievement
Genre conventions used, register appropriate, holds reader's attention.
Band 0–5
Organisation
Logical layout, paragraphing, cohesive devices used naturally.
Band 0–5
Language
Range and control of vocabulary and grammar; errors don't impede meaning.
Band 0–5
Cambridge Assessment English
Official Cambridge samples
Go and see the real paper — question layouts, timings and instructions straight from Cambridge. Opens on cambridgeenglish.org.