(FCE) First Certificate English Test example

 

Here is a Cambridge B2 First (FCE) sample test excerpt:

Cambridge B2 First (FCE) – Sample Test

Part 1: Reading and Use of English (Multiple Choice Cloze)

For questions 1–8, choose the answer (A, B, C, or D) which best fits each gap.

Learning a New Skill

Many people decide to take up a new hobby or skill each year. While some people are naturally talented, most people improve through practice and (1) ______. Learning something new can also help build confidence and reduce stress.

1. A. patience
   B. patient
   C. patiently
   D. patients

2. A. make
   B. do
   C. take
   D. have

3. A. despite
   B. although
   C. because
   D. however

4. A. reached
   B. achieved
   C. succeeded
   D. managed

---

Part 2: Reading

Read the text and answer the questions.

The Benefits of Walking

Walking is one of the simplest forms of exercise. It requires no special equipment and can be done almost anywhere. Studies have shown that regular walking improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and helps reduce stress.

Questions

1. Why is walking considered a simple form of exercise?

2. Name two health benefits mentioned in the text.

3. What does the word "it" refer to in the first sentence?

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Part 3: Writing

Essay

Write an essay answering the following question:

Some people think students should learn practical skills such as cooking and managing money at school. Others believe schools should focus only on academic subjects. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Write 140–190 words.

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Part 4: Speaking

Candidate A

Talk about the photograph and answer these questions:

• What are the people doing?

• Why might they be enjoying the activity?

• Would you like to take part in a similar activity? Why/Why not?

Candidate B

Compare the two photographs and say:

• What different skills are required?

• Which activity do you think is more challenging?

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Answer Key (Part 1)

1. A. patience

2. C. take

3. B. although

4. B. achieved

This is a shortened example. A real B2 First exam contains additional sections and more questions.

2. FCE Practice Exam - English Test

 Part 1: Reading and Use of English (75 minutes)

 A. Multiple Choice Cloze (8 questions) 

Choose the best answer (A, B, C, or D) to complete each sentence.

 1. I’ve never seen such a beautiful ______ of mountains before. 

   A) sight 

   B) view 

   C) look 

   D) eye

 2. If I ______ you, I would take that opportunity. 

   A) am 

   B) was 

   C) were 

   D) have been

 3. The company is planning to ______ new staff next month. 

   A) employ 

   B) dismiss 

   C) retire 

   D) fire

 

B. Word Formation (8 questions) 

Complete the sentences with the correct form of the word in brackets.

 9. The movie was so ______ that I couldn’t stop laughing. (fun) 

10. They arrived very ______ because of the traffic. (late) 

11. I’m interested in ______ new hobbies. (try) 

12. She gave a very ______ speech about her experiences. (inspire) 

13. The hotel staff was very ______ and helpful. (friend) 

14. It’s important to follow the ______ instructions carefully. (perform) 

15. The weather was ______ during our holiday. (change) 

16. The children were ______ when they saw the surprise. (excite)

 C. Sentence Transformation (6 questions) 

Rewrite the sentences using the word in brackets so that it means the same.

 17. I didn’t expect to see her at the party. (BE) 

18. It’s a good idea to take a map with you. (OUGHT) 

19. I don’t have enough money to buy that car. (ANY) 

20. She apologized because she was late. (SORRY) 

21. We’re planning to visit Spain next summer. (INTEND) 

22. The teacher asked the students to hand in their homework. (INSTRUCTED)

 

Part 2: Writing (40 minutes)

 Choose ONE of the following two questions:

 1. Write an essay (140-190 words) on the following topic:

 “The importance of learning foreign languages in today’s world.”

 

2. Write a letter (140-190 words) to a friend describing a recent holiday you had. Include details about where you went, what you did, and your feelings about the trip.

 

Part 3: Listening (30 minutes)

Sample task: 

You will hear a conversation between two friends planning a weekend trip. After listening, answer the following questions:

 1. Where do they plan to go? 

2. What activities do they want to do? 

3. What problem do they mention? 

 (In an actual exam, you would listen to the recording and answer the questions.)

 Part 4: Speaking (10-15 minutes)

 (Sample prompts)

 Part 1: 

- Talk about your favorite hobby. Why do you enjoy it? 

- Describe a person who is important to you.

 

Part 2: 

- Discuss a holiday you have enjoyed. What made it special? 

- Talk about your plans for the future.

If you have any questions about FCE or need assistance, please feel free to email.

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