B2-Level Writing Book: "Mastering English Writing Skills"
Chapter 1: Writing Informal Emails
Objective:
To practice writing informal emails to friends or family, focusing on tone, clarity, and
structure.
Text Structure & Tips:
• Subject Line: Be clear and concise.
• Greeting: Start with a friendly, informal greeting (e.g., "Hi [Name],").
• Body: Keep the language simple and conversational. Talk about personal
experiences, emotions, or activities.
• Closing: End with a warm sign-off (e.g., "Take care," or "Talk soon").
Example Task:
Write an email to a friend about a recent trip you took. Share details of where you went,
what you did, and how you felt about it.
Sample Answer:
Subject: My Weekend Trip to the Mountains
Hi Sarah,
I hope you’re doing well! I just wanted to tell you about my weekend trip to the
mountains. It was amazing! I spent two days hiking through the forests, and the views
from the top were breathtaking. I also visited a small village where I tried some local
dishes, which were delicious. It was a much-needed escape from the city, and I’m
already planning my next trip.
Take care and talk soon,
John
Comprehension Questions:
1. What did the writer do during their weekend trip?
2. What kind of language did the writer use to describe the trip?
Writing Task:
Write an email to your best friend telling them about your favorite hobby and why you
enjoy it.
Chapter 2: Writing Formal Emails
Objective:
To practice writing formal emails for work or academic settings, focusing on
professionalism and clarity.
Text Structure & Tips:
• Subject Line: Clear and specific (e.g., "Request for Information Regarding
Your Course").
• Greeting: Use a polite, professional greeting (e.g., "Dear [Name],").
• Body: Be clear and concise. State your purpose early and provide any necessary
information or context.
• Closing: Use a formal sign-off (e.g., "Kind regards," or "Sincerely").
Example Task:
Write an email to a professor asking for clarification on an assignment deadline.
Sample Answer:
Subject: Clarification on Assignment Deadline
Dear Professor Smith,
I hope this email finds you well. I am writing to ask for clarification regarding the
deadline for the final assignment in your course. Could you kindly confirm if it is due
by the end of next week or if there is an extension available? I want to make sure I
complete the assignment on time.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Kind regards,
Emily Turner
Comprehension Questions:
1. What was the purpose of the email?
2. What phrases were used to make the email sound polite and formal?
Writing Task:
Write an email to your manager requesting time off for a personal reason. Be polite and
provide all necessary details.
Chapter 3: Writing Descriptive Paragraphs
Objective:
To practice writing descriptive paragraphs, focusing on the use of sensory details and
vivid language.
Text Structure & Tips:
• Topic Sentence: Start with a clear topic sentence that introduces the subject.
• Supporting Details: Use sensory details (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch) to
describe the subject.
• Conclusion: End with a sentence that wraps up the description or gives a final
impression.
Example Task:
Write a descriptive paragraph about your favorite place. Include sensory details and
explain why you love it.
Sample Answer:
My favorite place is the beach near my house. The sand is soft and warm under my feet,
and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore is soothing. The salty smell of the
ocean fills the air, and I can taste the freshness of the sea breeze. I love watching the
vibrant colors of the sunset as they reflect off the water. It’s a peaceful escape from the
busy city life, and every time I visit, I feel completely relaxed.
Comprehension Questions:
1. What sensory details did the writer use in the paragraph?
2. How does the writer describe their feelings about the beach?
Writing Task:
Write a descriptive paragraph about your favorite season of the year. Include sensory
details and explain what makes it special.
Chapter 4: Writing an Opinion Essay
Objective:
To practice writing an opinion essay, focusing on presenting arguments clearly and
logically.
Text Structure & Tips:
• Introduction: Introduce the topic and state your opinion.
• Body Paragraphs: Present two or three arguments to support your opinion. Use
examples and details to make your points convincing.
• Conclusion: Summarize your opinion and restate why you believe it.
Example Task:
Do you agree or disagree with the statement: "Children should be allowed to use
smartphones"? Write an opinion essay to support your view.
Sample Answer:
In recent years, the question of whether children should be allowed to use smartphones
has become a subject of debate. While some people argue that smartphones can have a
negative impact on children, I believe that with proper supervision, smartphones can be
a valuable tool for learning and communication.
Firstly, smartphones allow children to access educational apps and websites that can
enhance their learning. With the right tools, children can explore new subjects, learn
languages, and even develop coding skills. Secondly, smartphones allow children to
stay connected with their friends and family, which can be especially important in
today’s world of remote learning.
However, it’s crucial for parents to monitor the amount of time their children spend on
smartphones. Excessive screen time can lead to health issues and hinder social skills. In
conclusion, I believe that children should be allowed to use smartphones, but only under
supervision and for educational purposes.
Comprehension Questions:
1. What is the writer’s opinion on children using smartphones?
2. What reasons does the writer give for allowing children to use smartphones?
Writing Task:
Write an opinion essay on the following topic: "Is it better to live in a big city or a small
town?" Support your answer with examples.
Chapter 5: Writing a Report
Objective:
To practice writing formal reports, focusing on providing information and making
recommendations.
Text Structure & Tips:
• Title: Choose a clear and descriptive title.
• Introduction: State the purpose of the report and give an overview of what will
be discussed.
• Findings/Results: Present the information or data clearly.
• Conclusion/Recommendations: Summarize the findings and make any
necessary recommendations.
Example Task:
Write a report on the benefits of regular exercise for mental health.
Sample Answer:
Title: The Benefits of Regular Exercise for Mental Health
Introduction:
This report explores the positive effects of regular exercise on mental health, with a
focus on reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
Findings:
Research shows that physical activity can significantly improve mental well-being.
Regular exercise increases the production of endorphins, the body’s natural mood
boosters. It has been shown to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Additionally,
exercise promotes better sleep patterns, which can help alleviate stress.
Conclusion and Recommendations:
In conclusion, regular exercise is a powerful tool for improving mental health. It is
recommended that individuals incorporate at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise into
their daily routines to experience these benefits.
Comprehension Questions:
1. What is the purpose of the report?
2. What benefits of exercise for mental health are mentioned in the report?
Writing Task:
Write a report on the impact of social media on young people. Discuss both the positive
and negative effects and make recommendations.
Chapter 6: Writing a Story
Objective:
To practice writing short stories, focusing on structure, creativity, and detail.
Text Structure & Tips:
• Introduction: Introduce the characters, setting, and situation.
• Development: Create conflict or challenges that the characters must face.
• Climax: The turning point or most exciting part of the story.
• Conclusion: Wrap up the story with a resolution.
Example Task:
Write a short story about a time you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.
Sample Answer:
One summer, I decided to climb the highest mountain in my country. I had never
climbed before, and I was nervous. The path was steep and narrow, and halfway up, I
slipped and hurt my ankle. I was scared and thought about turning back. But with
determination, I rested, wrapped my ankle, and continued. Reaching the summit was the
most incredible feeling. I realized that overcoming challenges is not about avoiding
difficulties, but facing them head-on.
Comprehension Questions:
1. What was the main challenge the writer faced?
2. How did the writer overcome it?
Writing Task:
Write a short story about an unexpected adventure you had while traveling.
