writing essay b1

What is English B1 Level? Writing and Essay Ideas & Examples

English Levels consist of 6 English levels in total. These levels are; A1 and A2 (Basic User), B1 and B2 (Independent User), C1 and C2 (Proficient User). This code system is created by The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​(CEFR).

English level B1 is the first level in the independent user level group. It indicates that the knowledge of English is at an intermediate level . If it is explained in general terms, “as an English learning level, people who have received an average of 200 lessons in the English course and can speak English at an intermediate level” can now switch to B1 level. At this level in English you easily could be able to communicate about common topics such as culture, work, social events and leisure with the four skills of English, Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing.

With the B1 level of English, you can meet all your needs during your travels abroad, communicate on familiar topics and make new friendships. Your ability to understand English at B1 level is higher than at A2 level and you can speak at an intermediate level. Usually in speaking, you express yourself with short and repetitive sentences instead of long and complex sentences.

How Do You Know If You Are at B1 Level in English?

The best way to understand your English level is to take a test. You can measure your English level with exams such as TOEFL and IELTS.

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) are likely the best and most commonly known English proficiency tests. They are widely accepted by American universities too.

You can also check your English level here and your test your English skills here.

English B1 Level Subjects

In order to get a B1 level in English you need to learn these subjects.

B1 Level Paragraph Writing Sample

Topic : What are the consequences of traffic congestion?

Suggested ideas for this topic:

-delays -stress -tiredness -frustrating time -frustrated drivers -road rage -increasing fuel consumption costs -increasing amount of CO2 emission -increasing air pollution

Paragraph Sample

There are lots of vehicles everywhere and the number of cars in big cities is increasing. This causes serious traffic congestion. Traffic congestion can have some negative effects not only on drivers but also on the people who live in cities. First of all, due to traffic jams, lots of people are late to their work. Therefore, they can’t start their work on time. For example, the people who work for big companies can be late. When people can’t finish their job on time, they have to stay in their office longer. This limits their free time so they feel unhappy. Secondly, the cars which are stuck in traffic jams cause air pollution. This air pollution has negative effects not only on nature but also on people who live in cities. Air pollution causes serious health problems. Finally, traffic congestion causes people to feel angry so some people can make dangerous things. To give an example, they can argue and fight with other drivers in traffic jams. Briefly, traffic congestion has negative effects on people’s psychology.

B1 Level Writing and Essay Ideas

Ideas for how do you write an opinion for B1 essay.

Essay 1: Social Networking Websites

Subject : These days most young people spend a lot of time on social network sites. Do you think this is a good thing or not? Write an essay about the good and bad sides of social media websites!

In your essay you should: • introduce the subject • present arguments in favour of and against using social media sites • write about your own habits concerning social networking

Your essay should be about 300 words long !

Essay 2: School and Part-Time Work

Subject : Many students work part-time while they are still at school or get a job in their summer holidays. What are the arguments for and against working and going to school at the same time?

Write an essay in which you • state the advantages and disadvantages • describe jobs you would work in if you had the opportunity • explain how working at an early age can affect your future life

Essay 3: Discrimination of Women

Subject : On Women’s Day, a famous American feminist visited your school. Your English teacher has asked you to express your opinion on today’s situation of women in an essay: “Although the position of women in society today has improved, there is still a great deal of discrimination. Do you agree?” In your essay you should:

• evaluate which disadvantages working women face • judge if a woman’s position in society has improved over the years • analyse whether discrimination is still a problem today.

Write an essay of about 300 words and give it a title.

Essay 3: Home By Ten ?

An American magazine is running an essay competition about rules teenagers have to follow. As a teenager you are used to hearing your parents say: “Be home by ten.” So, you have decided to send in an essay.

In your essay you should: • compare what you and your friends are allowed to do. • argue whether 10 p.m. is too early for teenagers to come home. • discuss the legal situation in your country. • comment on why some parents give their children strict guidelines on when to come home.

Write about 300 words and give your essay a title!

Essay 4 : Becoming Happy By Helping Others

Subject : A youth magazine is planning an essay competition on happiness. You decide to take part in the competition. It wants you to write about the following statement: “The only way to happiness is by helping other people.”

In your essay you should • analyse the reasons for helping other people. • give examples • express your opinion on why it can make you happy

Write an essay of about 250 – 300 words and give your essay a title.

Essay 5 : Immigrants In A New Country

Subject : A magazine is planning to publish a special section on immigration. It has asked readers to send in their opinions on the problems that immigrants have in their new country. You have decided to take part and send in an essay.

• why people want to leave their home country • the kind of life immigrants leave behind • the problems that they face in their new country • how long it may take them to fit in with their new environment

You May Also Like

Data Science vs. Machine Learning: What’s the Difference?

Positive Words List A-Z (PDF)

English Verb Tenses Quiz

Search form

A for and against essay.

Look at the essay and do the exercises to improve your writing skills.

Instructions

Do the preparation exercise first. Then do the other exercises.

Preparation

Check your understanding: multiple selection

Check your writing: reordering - essay structure, check your writing: typing - linking words, worksheets and downloads.

What are your views on reality TV? Are these types of shows popular in your country?

Sign up to our newsletter for LearnEnglish Teens

We will process your data to send you our newsletter and updates based on your consent. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the "unsubscribe" link at the bottom of every email. Read our privacy policy for more information.

Learn Vocabulary

Learn English Vocabulary Through Pictures with 150 Topics

Vocabulary Exercises A1

English Vocabulary Exercises for A1 with Answers.

Vocabulary Exercises A2

English Vocabulary Exercises for A2 with Answers.

Vocabulary Exercises B1

English Vocabulary Exercises for B1 with Answers.

Vocabulary Exercises B2

English Vocabulary Exercises for B2 with Answers.

FULL Grammar Exercises

FULL English Grammar Exercises with Answers

Verbs and Tenses Exercises

English Verbs and Tenses Exercises with Answers and Explanations

Grammar Exercises A1

English Grammar Exercises for A1 with Answers

Grammar Exercises A2

English Grammar Exercises for A2 with Answers

Grammar Exercises B1

English Grammar Exercises for B1 with Answers

Grammar Exercises B2

English Grammar Exercises for B2 with Answers

Listening Exercises Beginner

English Listening Exercises for Beginner with Answers

Listening Exercises A1

English Listening Exercises for A1 with Answers

Listening Exercises A2

English Listening Exercises for A2 with Answers

Listening Exercises B1

English Listening Exercises for B1 with Answers

Listening Exercises B2

English Listening Exercises for B2 with Answers

Listening Tests A1

Practice Listening Tests for A1 with Answers & Transcripts

Listening Tests A2

Practice Listening Tests for A2 with Answers & Transcripts

Listening Tests B1

Practice Listening Tests for B1 with Answers & Transcripts

Listening Tests B2

Practice Listening Tests for B2 with Answers & Transcripts

Word Skills Exercises A1

English Word Skills Exercises for A1 with Answers

Word Skills Exercises A2

English Word Skills Exercises for A2 with Answers

Word Skills Exercises B1

English Word Skills Exercises for B1 with Answers

Word Skills Exercises B2

English Word Skills Exercises for B2 with Answers

Reading Exercises Beginner

English Reading Exercises for Beginner with Answers

Reading Exercises A1

English Reading Exercises for A1 with Answers

Reading ExercisesC A2

English Reading Exercises for A2 with Answers

Reading Exercises B1

English Reading Exercises for B1 with Answers

Reading Exercises B2

English Reading Exercises for B2 with Answers

Speaking Exercises A1

English Speaking Exercises for A1 with Answers

Speaking Exercises A2

English Speaking Exercises for A2 with Answers

Speaking Exercises B1

English Speaking Exercises for B1 with Answers

Speaking Exercises B2

English Speaking Exercises for B2 with Answers

Writing Exercises A1

English Writing Exercises for A1 with Answers

Writing Exercises A2

English Writing Exercises for A2 with Answers

Writing Exercises B1

English Writing Exercises for B1 with Answers

Writing Exercises B2

English Writing Exercises for B2 with Answers

Business Listening A1

Business English Listening Exercises for A1 with Answers

Business Listening A2

Business English Listening Exercises for A2 with Answers

Business Listening B1

Business English Listening Exercises for B1 with Answers

Article Level 1

Improve your ability to speak English

Article Level 2

Article level 3, article level 4, conversations.

Listening Practice Through Dictation with Transcripts

English Writing Exercises for B1 – An opinion essay

English Writing Exercises for B1

Preparation

1. read the task and the essay. in which paragraph (a-d) does the writer ….

1   give his opinion?

2   introduce the topic?

3   make his proposals?

4   sum up the essay?

Some people think that the school curriculum should include subjects such as ‘leading a healthy lifestyle’. Write an essay in which you give your own opinion on this issue and propose ways in which this subject might be taught in schools.

[ A ]   If we can believe recent reports in the press, many teenagers are overweight and unfit. Some people argue that teaching children at school about a healthy lifestyle would help to solve this problem.

[ B ]   In my view , it would be very sensible to teach students how to lead a healthy lifestyle. Health problems later in life often start because people get into bad habits during their teenage years. It is sometimes said that this is the responsibility of the parent and not the school. But as I see it , everyone in society would benefit from this.

[ C ]   In order to tackle this problem , time should be set aside in the school timetable to teach children about the benefits of eating healthily and getting lots of exercise. Moreover , doctors could also play a part by coming into school and talking to students. I suggest that one or two hours a week should be spent on this topic.

[ D ]   To sum up , I agree with those people who believe that healthy living should be taught in schools. It seems to me that the students themselves and society in general would benefit from this proposal.

1 B   2 A   3 C   4 D

2. Complete the gaps with the underlined phrases from the essay.

1   Introducing your opinions

     in my opinion, 1 …………………………. 2 …………………………. 3 ………………………….

2   Introducing other people’s opinions

     It is a widely held view that

     Most people agree that

     It is a common belief that

      4 ………………………….

      5 ………………………….

3   Making an additional point

     What is more,      Not only that, but      Furthermore,

     6 ………………………….

4   Introducing proposals and solutions

     One solution might be to

     What I propose is that

     I would strongly recommend that

     It is vital that

     7 ………………………….  

     8 ………………………….

5   Concluding

      In conclusion,      To conclude,      9 ………………………….

1 In my view   2 as I see it   3 It seems to me that

4 Some people argue that   5 It is sometimes said that

6 Moreover   7 In order to tackle this problem

8 I suggest that   9 To sum up

Writing Guide

Many people think that teenagers spend too much time using electronic gadgets. Write an essay in which you give your own view of the problem and propose ways of solving it.

Writing Strategy

1   Divide your essay into an introduction, main body and conclusion.

2   If the task has more than one element, deal with them in different paragraphs within the main body.

3   Use formal language.

4   Support opinions with evidence or examples.

3. Read the task and the Writing Strategy above. In which paragraph (A-D) of your essay will you …

1   describe the problem?

2   introduce the topic: mention the problem (using different words from the task) and say that you will propose solutions?

3   sum up by saying that you are confident that your proposed solutions will help to solve the problem?

4   propose solutions?

1 B   2 A   3 D   4 C

4. Make notes about the headings below.

My view of the problem and its causes: …………………………….

Solutions to the problem: …………………………………….

your own answers

5. Write your essay. Follow the paragraph plan in exercise 3, and use your notes from exercise 4. Include some phrases from exercise 2.

Related posts.

• English Writing Exercises for B2 – An opinion essay
• English Writing Exercises for B1 – A formal letter
• English Writing Exercises for B1 – A narrative
• English Writing Exercises for B1 – Article: a film review
• English Writing Exercises for B1 – A for and against essay
• English Writing Exercises for B1 – An internet forum post

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Download World Class eBooks

Pin It on Pinterest

• B1 Preliminary (PET)
• B2 First (FCE)
• C1 Advanced (CAE)
• C2 Proficient (CPE)

Not a member yet?

• Part 1 0 / 25
• Part 2 0 / 25
• Part 3 0 / 25
• Part 4 0 / 25
• Part 5 0 / 25
• Part 6 0 / 25
• Part 1 0 / 20
• Part 2 0 / 20
• Part 3 0 / 20
• Part 4 0 / 20
• Part 1 NEW 0 / 10
• Part 2 NEW 0 / 10
• Part 3 NEW 0 / 10
• Part 4 NEW 0 / 10

Get unlimited access from as little as 2.60 € / per month. *One-time payment, no subscription.

Type: Email

Write your email to Nina using all the notes.

Write your email to Sam using all the notes.

• New account

Login into your account...

Not a memeber yet? Create an account.

Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive mail with link to set new password.

Back to login

Exam English ✓

• B1 Preliminary (PET)
• B1 Preliminary for Schools
• Cambridge exams

Free Practice Tests for learners of English

B1 preliminary (pet) writing.

Two parts - 45 minutes

• Writing part 1: write an email
• Writing part 2: write an article OR a story

Scoring The Writing section is worth 25% of the total score for the exam.

• Writing part 1 is marked out of 20
• Writing part 2 is marked out of 20
• Communicative Achievement
• Organisation

How to prepare for B1 Preliminary (PET) Writing

• read the instructions carefully before you start each section
• think about the timing. Spend 25 minutes on each part
• study these vocabulary topics
• study grammar at B1 level
• practise writing short texts, including emails

Writing tests

• part 1 - email
• part 1 - email 2
• part 2 - article
• part 2 - story

PET Sections

• Preliminary (PET)

2021 © Exam English Ltd. ALL Rights Reserved. Home | Terms of Use | Privacy policy Cookie preferences. -->

English Practice Downloadable PDF Grammar and Vocabulary Worksheets

Writing worksheets (b1).

This sections provides you with downloadable PDF writing tasks.

New Writing Worksheets

• ESS012 - Essay : Social Networking Websites
• ESS011 - Essay: School and Part-Time Work
• ESS010 - Essay: Discrimination of Women
• ESS009 - Essay : Home By Ten ?
• ESS008 - Essay : Extreme Activities
• ESS007 - Essay: Becoming Happy By Helping Others
• ESS006 - Essay : Time Management
• ESS005 - Essay: Immigrants In A New Country
• ESS004 - Essay : Teenagers and Their Free Time
• BLC003 - Blog Comment : Are Facebook Friends Real Friends?
• ESS003 - Essay : The Importance of Learning Foreign Languages
• EML003 - Application Email: Summer Camp Volunteer
• EML002 - Email : Coping With Stress
• EML001 - Email to the Agony Aunt
• STO001 - Short Story - A Surprising Find
• BLC002 - Blog Comment : Reality Shows Are A Waste Of Time
• BLC001 - Blog Comment : Coping With Stress
• ESS002 - Essay : Daily Exercise in Schools
• ESS001 - Essay : Healthy Nutrition
• Adjective - Adverb
• Gerund and Infinitive
• Modal Verbs
• Reported Speech
• Passive Voice
• Definite and Indefinite Articles
• Quantifiers
• Relative Clauses
• Prepositions
• Questions and Negations
• Question Tags
• Language in Use
• Word Formation
• General Vocabulary
• Topical Vocabulary
• Key Word Transformation

News Articles

• Letters and Emails
• Blog Posts and Comments
• Connectives and Linking Phrases
• Phrasal Verbs
• Collocations and Phrases

Listening Comprehension

Privacy policy.

An opinion essay

Learn how to write an opinion essay.

Do the preparation task first. Then read the text and tips and do the exercises.

Preparation

MultipleSelection_MjMwNTM=

Information will soon be so easy to find on the internet that people will not need to remember anything. Do you agree?

Nowadays all the information we could ever need is available online and some people say that means the end of having to learn anything.

It is true that these days everything you want to know is a few clicks away as long as you have internet access. However, not everyone has working internet all the time, for example in certain buildings or remote locations, so we do need to be able to remember information. Moreover, it takes time to look up everything you need to know online, whereas remembering something is immediate. The human memory is a much more efficient system.

Another problem is the quality of the information online. How do we know if it is accurate or reliable? We need to think about other facts we know and remember how to compare information from different websites. Knowing (and remembering) how to find certain information will be more important than knowing the information itself.

Finally, the internet is a good tool but it is not a useful replacement for our brains. If we did not remember anything, we would all spend even more time on our phones and computers than we already do, which is not good for society.

In conclusion, the internet offers us many things but it is still important to use our knowledge and memories. We need our memories to function without the internet and we also need to know how to use the internet properly.

• Read the question carefully. Respond to all ideas in it or all parts of it.
• Plan your ideas first and then choose the best ones.
• Introduce your essay by restating the question in your own words.
• Show understanding of both sides of the argument.
• Use linking words to connect your ideas.
• Draw your conclusion from the main ideas in your essay. Don't introduce new ideas at the end.

What do you think about the question? Would it be better or worse if we never learned anything and just used the internet instead?

Language level

It would be worse. If we only look for information on the internet, for everythingg and every time when we have a question about something we will become ''rusty robots''.

In other words, our minds, without exercising the creativity and memory of our brains, will be almost completly out of purpose. What's more, we will be lazy and with a slow capacity of thinking properly.

• Log in or register to post comments

It is evidently known that in recent days, the exchange of information is progressive over the network of various channels which we call it as Internet. Experts have made some definite predictions about the availability of data and information on the above mode of communication in near future. This particular development is totally agreeable. With respect to the technological advancements pertaining to the above, the human life shall be prepared to be compatible with the communication platforms on the network of servers. The key strengths will mainly focus on speed of communication, less errors and information accuracy. This aspect of technological development will eventually replace the traditional modes of information storage. This requires no effort in preservation of information on physical devices as all the core information will be stored in virtual servers. On the other hand, the above paradigm shift in terms of data centralization will certainly replace human brains. This attempt will not trigger any living beings to memorize information physically. It is quite obvious that our brains are limited and restricted with space constraints. Hence, this technology of information storage will drastically replace these drawbacks. Overall, this phenomenal trend of networking has provided a seamless mode of gathering, interpreting and storing information. At the same time, the consequences will be tremendous and noticeable as it will lead to an era where in people across the globe can surf and search their expected piece of data with-in no time. Practically, they don’t have to bother about any challenges related to failure of storage elements. Finally, this pattern of information storage is promisingly going to be accepted.

I think the use of the internet is not only in conflict with learning, but It has made the speed of learning faster and more comfortable.

On the one hand, With the advent of the internet and access to data whenever we want, we were able to free our minds from memorizing a lot of unnecessary data. It caused that instead of spending our time to remember the formulas and data, we use our time for a deeper understanding of the concepts. Concentration on understanding was a big step in order to make us more clear about how to apply scientific concepts practically, and It made the evolutionary process of turning scientific concepts into experimental tests go faster. Going through this evolutionary process quickly, in turn, caused, firstly, the faster growth of modern technologies and, secondly, the creation of many new data, concepts, and sciences. And now the data volume is so much that not only you can never remember or learn them, but you have to choose the best one that works for you. Somehow, the internet has changed how to learn. It has focused on analyzing the options and choosing the best one to learn Instead of memorizing a bunch of content.

On the other hand, Theoretically speaking, One of the laws In the world is that everything can be useful or harmful in turn. This law also applies to the internet. In fact, how to use the internet determines whether it is useful or harmful. Like many other tools that have been invented such as smartphones, smartwatches, electric cars, and so on we have spent time learning how to use them. In order to get the best out of the internet and don't waste our time, we must take the time to learn how to search. The searching skill is the most important one that helps us find better results.

In conclusion, Given the two analyzed reasons above, I agree with the idea that easy access to Information makes people get rid of memorizing lots of data. But this has nothing to do with the quality or quantity of learning.

I think it depends on the type of information. Some information are easier to remember, and hence it's more efficient to have them in memory instead of looking for them online. However, some complex information is offered online, and it will be impractical if we tried to remember it. Additionally, I believe that learning is not just about acquiring knowledge. It's about learning how to think with this knowledge available and solve problems efficiently. That's why the internet is considered a valuable tool to promote learning, not to replace it.

Nowadays we are witnesses how far technology has developed in a short time. A huge of information is backing up on internet and if you have access of surfing you can find any information that you are looking for. However, there are some relevant aspects that should be taking into account when we are talking about using always internet instead of learning. In this sense, the purpose of this essay will be to explain why it is not a good idea. Firstly, as you know, most of the information on internet is fake. For that reason, it is impossible the learning process can be replaced by internet use. If you are looking for reliable information you have to learn how it works. In other words you need of learning even if you want to use internet all the time because you have to discern what of all information is useful for you purpose. For example, if you are a student and want to write an essay about a specific topic you likely have to search for the best information if you want to get a job position or scholarship. Secondly, there is a high demand for professionals who have specific skills in the field that they are pretending to be involved. That’s why learning always is a must for satisfying the requirements of companies and institutions. For instance, in the education field, the main aim is the learning and knowledge which are essential on a daily life to be an expert in your field of action and these skills can’t be acquired through internet surfing. To sum up learning and knowledge are fundamentals in a current world that is demanding professionals highly qualified even in our daily live and the internet is far away of satisfying the required skills that you get every day through the practice, research and networking.

I think it become worse and dangerous for our society, we need to control it making rules. Without internet, many skills and knowledge could´nt be used.

I believe that, The internet become even more dangerous for young people who barely discovered the world around them, If they count on it for seeking information without parental supervision, it would be a disaster!

In nowadays,there are many ways to reach information.The Internet is just one of them but maybe most promising one.The Internet helps us to find information easily and efficently.

However there are some negative sides of Internet.For instance realibilty of information.There are no real control on Internet.I reckon there will not be soon.This reduces the trust in internet.This is why People will always need another source to be make sure and need to remember information.

It is also necesseray for objectivity. You can not just have one source and expect true and impartial information. It is against nature of science.This is not how science works.People must have and process the information.In this way we expand our knowledge.When we make brainstorm we always end up with another information. If we don’t have and process the information how Science works?

I suppose in the future People will never trust completely to Internet. They will always need another source and they will need to interrogate source of information.In conclusion Internet is by far most promising invention People have ever invented.However Internet is not beyond our brain and imagination.We will always need to posses and process the information.

It is about my hometown: My hometown is a beautiful, attractive and cool. N'beika is one of the most famous places in Mauritania where attractive views and economic capacities are in. It is located in Tagant which is in middle of the map. Therefore, It is one the biggest cities in the country. As there are interesting geographical features such as: high Mountains, nice valleys, light hills and wonderful pools. Historically, N'beika played an important role in culture, trade exchange and fighting colonialist. Also it has saved historical landmarks, for example: manuscripts, books and cities which the most important is Gasr Albarka. In the north, there have tourist views and in the East big mountains with lovely valleys like Matmata where there are some Alligators in and other attractive animals. As well as from the south and the west there are some fields, forests and farms. Moreover, people are interested in agriculture, trade, development and education. Furthermore, there are many schools and Mahidras and three colleges providing well-deserved education to students. What's more, mall shops is offering demands and created jobs for unemployment. There are different favourite for people , some of them are crazy about football as youth, and some people like doing agriculture and development. Moreover, there are entrepreneurs doing a small business like selling clothes, pitch, barbershop... etc. In conclusion, N'beika is a gift of Allah that has given to people to spend nice moments in order to feel happy and to invest for everything we want due to gain lots of money .

I believe it is amazing updated technology which has helped us a lot in our lives. In todays era everyone has access to internet over the globe. you can easily find all the information on internet that is required to you. Even though learn many new skills which aren't even taught you from the help of internet. it is good help for book writer like us where we can be part of book writing communities or book writing resources to enhance our skills and provides more guidance to others.

Online courses

Group and one-to-one classes with expert teachers.

Learn English in your own time, at your own pace.

One-to-one sessions focused on a personal plan.

Get the score you need with private and group classes.  

Related information

Ise a1 (a1) resources, ise foundation (a2) resources, ise i (b1) resources, ise ii (b2) resources, ise iii (c1) resources, ise iv (c2) resources, reading & writing - ise i (b1), classroom activities.

Practice activities suitable for ISE I (B1):

Task 1 - Long reading

• Activity 1 - Fashion
• Activity 2 - Cinemas
• Activity 3 - Skimming travel information

Task 2 - Multi-text reading

• Activity 1 - Greeting cards
• Activity 2 - Time

Task 3 - Reading into writing

• Activity 1 - Strict or relaxed parents
• Activity 2 - Means of transport
• Activity 3 - Sugar

Task 4 - Extended writing

• Activity 1 - Blogging
• Activity 2 - Seasonal celebration
• Activity 3 - Email to school principal

Writing genres

• Guidance on Writing genres – writing in specific genres for the exam – eg a letter, email, essay, review, report, etc.

Building process writing skills

• Portfolio Toolkit for teachers – ISE I  - a method for teachers to help students build process writing skills (not assessed).

Practice papers

Practise answering typical exam questions:

• Sample paper 1 (with notes)
• Sample paper 1 (with answers)
• Sample paper 2 (with answers)
• Sample paper 3 (with answers)
• Sample paper 4 (with answers)
• Sample paper 5 (with answers)
• Sample paper 6 (with answers)
• Sample paper 7 (with answers)

Marking and interpreting outcomes:

• How to mark practice ISE exam materials
• Example marked candidate responses - ISE I

Keep in touch

Make sure you don’t miss the latest news from Trinity College London. Sign up for email updates about your subject area.

Writing B1 Preliminary (PET): Guía Completa y Ejemplos [Actualizado 2020]

Luis @ kse academy.

• enero 14, 2023

El  B1 Preliminary (PET)  es, a día de hoy, el examen más popular de Cambridge Assessment English en España. Como ya sabrás, el  Writing B1 del PET  es únicamente una de las 4 partes del examen  B1 Preliminary , anteriormente conocido como PET. Este examen de B1 consta de 4 partes diferenciadas: Reading, Writing, Listening y Speaking. En el post de hoy me centraré en  cómo es el Writing del B1 de Cambridge , ya que en mi experiencia como  preparador de exámenes de Cambridge Assessment English , el Writing del B1 Preliminary (PET) es una de las partes más fáciles de perfeccionar de cara al examen, en relativamente poco tiempo. Así que atiende, porque si te quieres  aprobar el PET , te conviene sacar la máxima nota en el  Writing del B1  Preliminary.

¡Nueva guía de B1 Writing!

• 6 ejemplos de cada tipo de tarea
• Emails, Articles & Stories
• 300+ expresiones útiles listas para usar en tus tareas de Writing
• 93 páginas de contenido exclusivo para Writing B1
• Descripción completa del Writing del B1 Preliminary
• Descripción detallada de cada una de las partes del Writing
• Criterios de evaluación y páginas de Preguntas Frecuentes (FAQ)

Writing B1 Preliminary: Story (Historia)

• Ejemplo de Writing B1 Part 2: Historia (Story)

Writing B1: cuál es el nivel

Tal y como indica el nombre del examen,  B1 Preliminary , en este examen de Cambridge Assessment English se espera un  nivel intermedio , según lo define el  Marco Común Europeo de Referencia para las Lenguas (MCERL) . Según el MCERL, comúnmente conocido como Marco de Referencia (MER), un candidato de nivel B1 en su Writing:

Es capaz de producir textos sencillos y coherentes sobre temas que le son familiares o en los que tiene un interés personal.

Si nos leemos más detenidamente el apartado de  expresión escrita , podremos ver que el  MER  especifica que un alumno con un nivel B1:

• En general:

Escribe textos sencillos y cohesionados sobre una serie de temas cotidianos dentro de su campo de interés enlazando una serie de distintos elementos breves en una secuencia lineal.

• En escritura creativa:

– Escribe descripciones sencillas y detalladas sobre una serie de temas cotidianos dentro de su especialidad. – Escribe relaciones de experiencias describiendo sentimientos y reacciones en textos sencillos y estructurados. – Es capaz de escribir una descripción de un hecho determinado, un viaje reciente, real o imaginado. – Puede narrar una historia.

• En escritura de informes y redacciones:

– Escribe redacciones cortas y sencillas sobre temas de interés. – Puede resumir, comunicar y ofrecer su opinión con cierta seguridad sobre hechos concretos relativos a asuntos cotidianos, habituales o no, propios de su especialidad. – Es capaz de escribir informes muy breves en formato convencional con información sobre hechos habituales y los motivos de ciertas acciones.

Como ves, un  Writing nivel B1  no debe ser tan complicado de realizar, pero todo es relativo, obviamente.

Ahora que sabemos qué nivel debe tener un  Writing B1 , pasemos a ver  cómo es el Writing del B1 Preliminary , y veamos algunos  ejemplos de ejercicios de Writing del PET  tomados de la propia web de  Cambridge Assessment English .

Cómo es el Writing B1 Preliminary

En la parte de Writing del PET,  los candidatos tienen que realizar dos partes , las cuales deben realizarse en un total de  45 minutos . Ambas partes son tareas de Writing más o menos tradicionales, como puedes ver a continuación:

• Writing Part 1: Email
• Writing Part 2: Artículo o historia

Con la realización de estas tareas, se espera que demuestres un nivel B1 mediante la utilización de estructuras gramaticales y léxicas propias de un  Writing de B1 .

A continuación vamos a ver las 2 partes de las que consta el  Writing del B1 Preliminary (PET) .

Tipos de Writing B1

Writing b1 preliminary: part 1 – email.

En la primera parte de este examen de Writing tienes que escribir un email de alrededor de 100 palabras . ¿Y qué significa «alrededor de 100 palabras»? Pues lo que le recomiendo yo a mis alumnos es que ese «alrededor» significa 20 palabras más o menos, es decir, entre 80 y 120 palabras, pero realmente no deberías preocuparte por eso. Lo que tienes que hacer es:

• Responder a un email con unas anotaciones que supuestamente has hecho tú.
• Número de palabras: 100

Para  escribir un email en tu examen de B1, es importante que estés familiarizado con el tipo de tarea que te encontrarás. Por eso, veamos ahora un ejemplo de tarea para que veas cómo son las instrucciones de un email para el PET versión 2020 .

Si nos fijamos en este tipo de tarea, podemos destacar los siguientes aspectos:

• A nivel B1 siempre te van a pedir que escribas a un amigo o un familiar , por lo que se trata de un  email informal , es decir, que no debes preocuparte por intentar hacer que tu email suene formal ni nada de eso.
• Las anotaciones nos dicen qué tenemos que hacer/decir ( Say which I prefer…, Ask Sandy…, etc. ), por lo que es imposible que no sepamos qué decir en nuestro email. Sin embargo, es recomendable decir todo eso utilizando otras palabras siempre que sea posible.
• Hay que responder a todas las anotaciones ( Write your email to Sandy using all the notes .)

Genial. Más adelante veremos un ejemplo de respuesta a esta tarea.

Por el momento, pasemos a la segunda parte del Writing del B1 Preliminary , antes conocido como PET.

Writing B1 Preliminary: Part 2

En esta parte, como candidato, tienes que escribir otro texto de alrededor de 100 palabras , pero esta vez podrás elegir entre  dos tipos de Writing :

• Artículo ( article )
• Historia ( story )

Anteriormente había que escribir un mensaje corto , pero ya no es el caso. Así que veamos un  ejemplo de cada tipo de Writing del B1 Preliminary , es decir, un ejemplo del enunciado de cada tipo de Writing.

Writing B1 Preliminary: Article (Artículo)

Este formato es especialmente novedoso en el Writing del PET , ya que antiguamente el artículo comenzaba a trabajarse a nivel B2, pero desde los cambios de 2020 , el Writing del B1 sí incluye un artículo como una opción de tarea de Writing en la parte 2.

Sin embargo, no debes preocuparte por eso, ya que el hecho de que haya un nuevo tipo de Writing no quiere decir que el nivel sea más difícil, pues recuerda, el PET es un examen de nivel B1, y eso no ha cambiado con las nuevas actualizaciones.

Pero no me enrollo más, veamos ahora cómo son las instrucciones para el artículo del B1 Writing Part 2 :

Como ves, las instrucciones están muy claritas. En este caso, debes responder a un anuncio que has visto en una página web , y la temática es de películas. Por lo general, los artículos van a ser de temáticas que te permitan expresar tu opinión , y no van a ser temas muy raros, pues a nivel B1 no nos pueden complicar mucho la vida, la verdad.

Luego veremos un ejemplo de respuesta para esta tarea. Por ahora, pasemos a ver el último tipo de Writing para el PET, la historia.

En este caso, el Writing debe ser de alrededor de  100 palabras también , pero en vez de un email o un artículo, has de escribir una historia. En mi humilde opinión,  escribir una historia es más difícil que un artículo , ya que el email es más fácil prepararlo y, en general, estamos más acostumbrados a escribir artículos gracias a los institutos. La historia, en general, requiere de un mayor uso de tiempos verbales y creatividad. Pero obviamente, todo  depende de ti , de tus habilidades y de tu creatividad.

Como ves en esta tarea de Writing B1, te proporcionan la primera oración que debe contener tu texto. En otras ocasiones, te dan el título. Y recuerda,  debes incluir un título  (te lo den o no)  y la primera oración  (si te la dan, obviamente). Mucha gente pregunta esto durante los exámenes, así que ya lo sabes: si vas a escribir la historia, incluye lo que te den. 🙂

Ejemplos de Writing B1 Preliminary (PET)

En esta sección vamos a ver un  ejemplo de Writing B1  para cada tipo de Writing. El objetivo de esta sección es que te familiarices con los distintos tipos de Writing y que te formes una idea más clara de qué esperan de ti los correctores de tu examen de B1. Además, en los siguientes ejemplos, intento simular un nivel B1 más bien fuerte, para que sepas a lo que deben aspirar tus Writings.

¡Vamos allá!

Ejemplo de Writing B1 Part 1: Email

A continuación tienes un ejemplo de email para el Writing del B1. En concreto, esta es una posible respuesta a la tarea planteada anteriormente.

Hi Sandy,  Thanks a lot for writing back. I’m also really excited about visiting you!  On my first evening, I’d like to relax at home. I will probably be very tired from the trip, so I need to rest and get ready for the other days. Is that okay?  As for climbing, I’m afraid I can’t. I forgot to tell you, but I hurt my knee last week, so I can’t do sport now.  How about visiting some art galleries in your town? If you want, we could go. You know I love art! What do you think? Well, I have to go now, but please let me know what you think.  Take care,  Luis

Genial. Ya tenemos el ejemplo de email para el Writing B1. Como ves, al tratarse de un email, tiene una estructura muy bien definida:

• Saludo : Hi Sandy,
• Párrafo introductorio ( Me too ): Thanks a lot for writing back.
• Idea 1 ( Say which I prefer… ): On my first evening,…
• Idea 2 ( No because… ): As for climbing,…
• Idea 3 ( Ask Sandy… ): How about visiting…?
• Párrafo de despedida : Well, I have to go now…
• Despedida : Take care,
• Firma : Luis

Lo bueno de  escribir un email para el B1  es que  todos los emails pueden/deben llevar la misma estructura . De este modo, hay ciertas partes y ciertas fórmulas que ya puedes llevar preparadas de casa.

Te recomiendo el siguiente post para saber  cómo escribir un email para el B1 .

Ejemplo de Writing B1 Part 2: Artículo ( Article )

A continuación tienes una posible respuesta al artículo planteado en la sección anterior. Fíjate muy bien en la distribución, en los conectores y en cómo cada párrafo se centra en una idea en particular.

Thrillers are the best!  Watching films is one of my favourite hobbies. I try to watch a film or two every week. However, although I watch many films, I don’t like all types of movies. My favourite ones are thrillers.  I love thrillers because the plot is usually awesome and you can never predict the ending.  Also, I think thriller actors and directors normally do a very good job!  The best place to watch a good movie is at the cinema. The screen is huge, the seats are comfortable and you can have popcorn! That’s why I try to go to the cinema every weekend! What about you? Do you like thrillers? What type of movies do you enjoy? 

Si te fijas bien, cada párrafo se centra en alguna de las ideas planteadas en la tarea:

• Introducción: Introducción para What kind of films do you enjoy?
• 2º párrafo: Desarrollo de What kind of films do you enjoy?
• 3º párrafo: Do you prefer to watch them at the cinema or at home? Why?
• Último párrafo: Lanzo una pregunta al lector, ya que se trata de una web donde seguramente puedan escribir comentarios.

Ejemplo de Writing B1 Part 2: Historia ( Story )

The Broken Train Tim felt angry as he got off the train. The train had broken down and they had stopped in the middle of the countryside. Everyone was getting of the train, speaking to each other. But Tim was tired and he didn’t want to talk much. So he sat under a tree and decided to take a nap. Tim was sleeping when, without a warning, he heard the sound of a train moving. All of a sudden, Tim woke up and saw the train moving away. He shouted, “Stop the train, please!”, but nobody heard him. And although he ran and ran, Tim couldn’t reach the train. In the end, he gave up running and called his parents, who picked him up a few hours later.

Si te fijas bien en esta  historia para B1 , verás que tiene 3 párrafos bien definidos, una variedad de tiempos verbales (was tired, didn’t want, was getting off, was sleeping, had broken, had stopped, etc.), expresiones de tiempo (In the end, when, a few hours later) y expresiones para crear suspense (all of a sudden, without a warning). Estos son los elementos que harán que una historia sea buena o no, por eso pienso que, en general, son más difíciles de escribir que los emails.

Haz clic aquí para saber  cómo se escribe una historia para B1 .

Y ahora que conocemos a la perfección cada parte del Writing del PET, pasemos a ver cómo se evalúa esta parte del examen de B1.

Writing B1 Preliminary (PET): cómo se evalúa

Todos los Writings del PET se evalúan teniendo en cuenta 4 criterios de evaluación fundamentales. Estos son:  Content ,  Communicative Achievement, Organisation  y  Language . Veamos en qué consiste cada uno de estos criterios:

• Content : Se refiere a cómo de bien has sabido completar la tarea, es decir,  si has hecho lo que se pedía . En este sentido es importante que  respondas a cada punto propuesto  en cada ejercicio y que la información que escribas cubra bien cada punto y la tarea en general.
• Communicative Achievement : Este criterio se centra en  cómo de apropiado es tu Writing  con respecto al ejercicio propuesto. En este sentido, cobran especial relevancia el  estilo  y el  registro  con el que hayas escrito. A nivel B1 es importante que escribas con lenguaje familiar, ya que estarás comunicándote con un familiar o amigo.
• Organisation : ¿Tu writing es  lógico  y está bien  estructurado ? Perfecto. En ese caso obtendrás buena nota en este apartado. En general, cualquier Writing de tiene que tener  párrafos coherentemente interconectados , con oraciones bien cohesionadas que ofrezcan una  progresión lógica  y fácil de comprender. Para ello, debes usar una serie de conectores de B1.
• Language : Este criterio, obviamente, trata de que tu gramática y vocabulario se encuentren en un nivel B1 y de que no cometas demasiados errores linguísticos.

Consejos para el Writing B1 Preliminary

Como para cada parte del B1 Preliminary (PET), para el Writing existen una serie de estrategias que puedes llevar a cabo para que tu Writing esté al nivel de lo que los correctores esperan. En general, yo siempre recomiendo lo siguiente, sin importar qué tipo de Writing sea:

• Haz un esquema antes de escribir . Es buena idea hacer anotaciones antes de empezar a escribir para saber cómo vas a organizar tu Writing. De este modo, evitarás pasarte de palabras (aunque esto no es muy importante), y no te dejarás ninguna de las ideas principales en el tintero.
• Escribe un borrador y mejóralo hasta llegar a la versión final . Escribir todo perfectamente de primeras es muy difícil. Por eso debes escribir un primer borrador, que luego debes reescribir y modificar hasta que sea perfecto. De este modo, irás mejorando distintos aspectos del texto como el vocabulario y la gramática.
• Define bien los párrafos de cada Writing . Aunque parezca una tontería, definir los párrafos hace que tu Writing, aparte de organizado, sea  visualmente atractivo , lo cual causará una buena impresión en el lector, que en este caso es un corrector, jeje.
• Escribe con conocimiento de causa . Estás en un examen de inglés en el que deberías demostrar todo lo que sabes. Por ello, cuando escribas intenta lucirte utilizando ciertas estructuras adrede. Intenta meter alguna oración condicional, comparativa o algo así. Así te lucirás más y eso lo verán los correctores.
• Revisa antes de darlo por terminado . Nunca entregues un ejercicio de Writing sin revisarlo antes. Léelo cuando lo acabes, intentando buscar posibles erratas, errores ortográficos, faltas de concordancia, etc. Únicamente con revisarlo evitarás errores tontos y comunes que podrían afectar negativamente a tu nota.

Genial, creo que ya debes tener una idea bastante más clara de cómo es el Writing del B1 Preliminary. Aún así, si todavía te queda alguna duda, déjame un comentario y pregúntame lo que quieras, que para eso estoy aquí, para ayudarte.

Y mientras tanto, don’t forget to keep smiling! 😀

42 comentarios en “Writing B1 Preliminary (PET): Guía Completa y Ejemplos [Actualizado 2020]”

Di una practica del examen B1 como fue mi primera vez y el tiempo se paso volando pensé que en la parte del writing se respondían las 2 preguntas jajaja ahora me doy cuenta que era solo una entre historia o artículo :c a seguir esforzándose buen contenido. Algún método para poder hablar mas fluido en inglés.

Hola Diego! Sí, es muy importante practicar con exámenes por eso mismo, para habituarnos al tiempo que tenemos para finalizarlos y ver qué partes nos cuestan más. Seguro que el próximo sale mejor, jeje. En cuanto a hablar más fluido, yo lo que recomiendo es hablar mucho (a veces con algún profe para que nos corrija) y complementarlo con muchísimo «input», es decir, pegarte horas leyendo, escuchando y viendo cosas en inglés. Pero obviamente, practicarlo activamente es esencial.

La parte 4 veo que es muy complicada pues an Tes en mi opinión era más fácil y el que esa parte me cuesta mucho algún Consejo pararacticarlo mejor y que cuando lleve al exame Real , no me quedé en blanco , he estado mirandopero sólo cojo cosas aisladas no el ex yo completo

Hola, a qué parte 4 te refieres? Reading? Listening? Speaking? Un saludo!

Hola , yo hago el examen mañana pro yo te recomiendo que hagas todas las partes muchas veces en simulaciones de examenes , yo lo que echo es buscar en google prelimilary b1 cambrige reading y la parte que mas me cuesta y me ha servido bastante

Hola Luis, Muchísimas gracias por el articulo. Muy bien explicado y la verdad que es de gran ayuda. Yo tengo examen en breve del B1, aunque mi duda era preguntar, si cae mismo tipo de writting para estas pruebas oficiales o pueden variar ?

Un saludo, y muchas gracias.

Hola Cristina. Espero estar a tiempo para responderte. Los Writings siempre tienen el mismo formato y son el mismo tipo (article, email, story), pero obviamente la temática puede variar mucho. Un saludo! 🙂

Mil gracias Luis por todos estos consejos que irán muy bien a muchísimos estudiantes.

Muchas gracias, Paqui. Espero que así sea. Un saludo!

Hi Luis, Thank you very much for the article. Very well explained and the truth is that it helps a lot. i need more examples for articles without answers for practice of me thanks

Hi! Thanks for your comment. 🙂 Unfortunately, I don’t have any more examples right now. Take care!

HOLA: Muchas gracias por la información, tengo una duda, ´¿Qué puntaje se le da a cada parte de Writing? Gracias.

Hola Tania. Puedes ver toda la información sobre puntuaciones del B1 aquí: http://kseacademy.com/cambridge/como-calcular-puntuacion-examen-cambridge/#2-cómo-calcular-la-puntuación-del-b1-preliminary-pet

Básicamente, el Writing cuenta un 25% (al igual que Reading, Listening y Speaking). Y dentro de ese 25%, cada Writing cuenta un 50%. 🙂

Hola, Luis. Ha sido una gran sorpresa encontrarme con tu web. Me está ayudando muchísimo a preparar mi examen de B1. Mil gracias!!!

Hola Lur! Muchas gracias por tu comentario. Me alegro de haberte sido de ayuda! Espero que te salga bien el examen. 🙂

¡Buenas! Entonces, ¿es esta la estructura que encontraremos siempre? Part 1: Email and Part 2: article or story? ¿No encontramos ningún otro tipo? Gracias de antemano por su atención. Aprovecho para felicitarle por su gran contenido! (:

Sí, efectivamente. Siempre es así! 🙂

Hola Luis!!! Muchas gracias por el artículo. Me ha ayudado mucho. Soy de la que se olvidan de todo cuando tiene un examen en frente. Pero con estas explicaciones y mi esfuerzo, seguro que apruebo.

Muchísimas gracias por tu comentario y siento la tardía respuesta. Un saludo!

Hola! En la historia el título o la oración inicial que nos den ¿cuenta para las 100 palabras? ¿O se empieza a contar desde donde empezamos a escribir? Es decir, en el ejemplo «Tim felt angry as he got off the train» ¿cuenta para las 100 palabras o no? Gracias por la página! Muy útil.

Muchísimas gracias por tu comentario y siento la tardía respuesta. Todo lo que escribas cuenta en esas 100 palabras, incluido el título, la primera frase, etc. 🙂 Un saludo!

Parte 4 del reading, saludos

Hola Luis!! Muchas gracias por el post ha sido de gran ayuda!! Cuánto tiempo dan para la parte de writing?

Buenas, si escribo más de 120 palabras en cada una de las partes cuanto me bajarían en el writin?

Hola! No te bajan por el número de palabras directamente, sino por cómo de relevante sea la información que incluyas. Si te pasas por mucho, probablemente estés hablando de cosas innecesarias y te penalizarán. Si no llegas, probablemente te falte información y te penalicen. Así es como funciona, jeje. Un saludo.

Hola, muchisimas gracias por toda la información tan clara y relevante que explicas en tu web, me está resultado muy útil. Absolutely suggested!! Thanks so much

hols cusntss pslsbrss necesits csds writing? grsciss.

Hola, yo me estoy preparando para el examen de B1,el email siempre está ,y los otros 2 (artículo e historia),¿entran en el examen siempre? Un saludo y muchas gracias

Hola, tengo una duda, ¿las palabras como I’m/It’s se cuentan como una o como dos?

Hola, José. Yo, personalmente, las cuento como dos. Pero si lo compruebas en el editor de Writings de Cambridge (puedes verlo en su web, en la sección Preparation de cada examen), verás que solo contabiliza como una palabra. No obstante, este tipo de cosas no deben preocuparte, ya que no penalizan por el número de palabras en concreto, mientas más o menos estés en el rango. Lo importante es que tu contenido responda bien a lo que se te pide en las instrucciones. 🙂

Hi! Do you have this post available in English, please? Thanks.

I am afraid not. Sorry! 🙁

Hola, muchas gracias por los posts que has hecho explicando las diferentes partes, hace ya un tiempecillo que me saqué el b1 y ahora que estoy preparando a un estudiante necesitaba refrescarlo. Me ha surgido una duda, ¿dejan una hoja en blanco para hacer un borrador en el writing?

Hola, Inés. Sí, en cualquier parte puedes pedir folios para escribir, tomar notas, etc. Pero recuerda que esos papeles los tendrás que entregar antes de salir, ya que nada del material de examen puede salir de la sala de examen. 🙂

Hola, Luis. Tengo el examen del B1 el 5 de Mayo, casi ahora mismo. Me ha gustado mucho como lo has explicado todo. Creo que me va a ayudar un montón en el examen real. Un saludo.

Me alegro mucho, Daniel. Muchas gracias por tu comentario. Un saludo y muchísima suerte en tu examen!

me ayudo mucho tus consejos espero llegar a los puntos necesarios en mi examen

Gracias por tu comentario, Jans. Muchísima suerte!

Muchas gracias!! Me examino del b1 el martes 21 y me ha sido de gran ayuda.

Me alegro mucho, María Jesús. Espero que fuese bien el examen. Un saludo!

Deja una respuesta Cancelar la respuesta

Tu dirección de correo electrónico no será publicada. Los campos obligatorios están marcados con *

Comentario *

Correo electrónico*

Guarda mi nombre, correo electrónico y web en este navegador para la próxima vez que comente.

• Clases privadas
• Prueba de nivel
• Condiciones
• Política de privacidad

Cambridge English

• A2 Key (KET)
• B1 Preliminary (PET)
• B2 First (FCE)
• C1 Advanced (CAE)
• C2 Proficiency (CPE)
• Linguaskill

Blog de inglés

• Gramática inglesa
• Phrasal Verbs
• Diferencias
• Enviar mensaje
• 958 964 684
• Calle Arabial 4, 18004 Granada
• Lista de espera

Comienza a escribir y presiona Intro para buscar

Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World

Read our research on:

Full Topic List

Regions & Countries

• Publications
• Our Methods
• Short Reads
• Tools & Resources

Read Our Research On:

About 1 in 5 U.S. teens who’ve heard of ChatGPT have used it for schoolwork

Roughly one-in-five teenagers who have heard of ChatGPT say they have used it to help them do their schoolwork, according to a new Pew Research Center survey of U.S. teens ages 13 to 17. With a majority of teens having heard of ChatGPT, that amounts to 13% of all U.S. teens who have used the generative artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot in their schoolwork.

Teens in higher grade levels are particularly likely to have used the chatbot to help them with schoolwork. About one-quarter of 11th and 12th graders who have heard of ChatGPT say they have done this. This share drops to 17% among 9th and 10th graders and 12% among 7th and 8th graders.

There is no significant difference between teen boys and girls who have used ChatGPT in this way.

The introduction of ChatGPT last year has led to much discussion about its role in schools , especially whether schools should integrate the new technology into the classroom or ban it .

Pew Research Center conducted this analysis to understand American teens’ use and understanding of ChatGPT in the school setting.

The Center conducted an online survey of 1,453 U.S. teens from Sept. 26 to Oct. 23, 2023, via Ipsos. Ipsos recruited the teens via their parents, who were part of its KnowledgePanel . The KnowledgePanel is a probability-based web panel recruited primarily through national, random sampling of residential addresses. The survey was weighted to be representative of U.S. teens ages 13 to 17 who live with their parents by age, gender, race and ethnicity, household income, and other categories.

This research was reviewed and approved by an external institutional review board (IRB), Advarra, an independent committee of experts specializing in helping to protect the rights of research participants.

Here are the  questions used for this analysis , along with responses, and its  methodology .

Teens’ awareness of ChatGPT

Overall, two-thirds of U.S. teens say they have heard of ChatGPT, including 23% who have heard a lot about it. But awareness varies by race and ethnicity, as well as by household income:

• 72% of White teens say they’ve heard at least a little about ChatGPT, compared with 63% of Hispanic teens and 56% of Black teens.
• 75% of teens living in households that make $75,000 or more annually have heard of ChatGPT. Much smaller shares in households with incomes between $30,000 and $74,999 (58%) and less than $30,000 (41%) say the same.

Teens who are more aware of ChatGPT are more likely to use it for schoolwork. Roughly a third of teens who have heard a lot about ChatGPT (36%) have used it for schoolwork, far higher than the 10% among those who have heard a little about it.

When do teens think it’s OK for students to use ChatGPT?

For teens, whether it is – or is not – acceptable for students to use ChatGPT depends on what it is being used for.

There is a fair amount of support for using the chatbot to explore a topic. Roughly seven-in-ten teens who have heard of ChatGPT say it’s acceptable to use when they are researching something new, while 13% say it is not acceptable.

However, there is much less support for using ChatGPT to do the work itself. Just one-in-five teens who have heard of ChatGPT say it’s acceptable to use it to write essays, while 57% say it is not acceptable. And 39% say it’s acceptable to use ChatGPT to solve math problems, while a similar share of teens (36%) say it’s not acceptable.

Some teens are uncertain about whether it’s acceptable to use ChatGPT for these tasks. Between 18% and 24% say they aren’t sure whether these are acceptable use cases for ChatGPT.

Those who have heard a lot about ChatGPT are more likely than those who have only heard a little about it to say it’s acceptable to use the chatbot to research topics, solve math problems and write essays. For instance, 54% of teens who have heard a lot about ChatGPT say it’s acceptable to use it to solve math problems, compared with 32% among those who have heard a little about it.

Note: Here are the  questions used for this analysis , along with responses, and its  methodology .

• Artificial Intelligence
• Technology Adoption
• Teens & Tech

Olivia Sidoti is a research assistant focusing on internet and technology research at Pew Research Center

Jeffrey Gottfried is an associate director focusing on internet and technology research at Pew Research Center

Many Americans think generative AI programs should credit the sources they rely on

Americans’ use of chatgpt is ticking up, but few trust its election information, q&a: how we used large language models to identify guests on popular podcasts, striking findings from 2023, what the data says about americans’ views of artificial intelligence, most popular.

1615 L St. NW, Suite 800 Washington, DC 20036 USA (+1) 202-419-4300 | Main (+1) 202-857-8562 | Fax (+1) 202-419-4372 |  Media Inquiries

Research Topics

• Age & Generations
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Economy & Work
• Family & Relationships
• Gender & LGBTQ
• Immigration & Migration
• International Affairs
• Internet & Technology
• Methodological Research
• News Habits & Media
• Non-U.S. Governments
• Other Topics
• Politics & Policy
• Race & Ethnicity
• Email Newsletters

ABOUT PEW RESEARCH CENTER  Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of  The Pew Charitable Trusts .

Copyright 2024 Pew Research Center

Terms & Conditions

Privacy Policy

Cookie Settings

Reprints, Permissions & Use Policy

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

NPR editor Uri Berliner resigns with blast at new CEO

David Folkenflik

Uri Berliner resigned from NPR on Wednesday saying he could not work under the new CEO Katherine Maher. He cautioned that he did not support calls to defund NPR. Uri Berliner hide caption

Uri Berliner resigned from NPR on Wednesday saying he could not work under the new CEO Katherine Maher. He cautioned that he did not support calls to defund NPR.

NPR senior business editor Uri Berliner resigned this morning, citing the response of the network's chief executive to his outside essay accusing NPR of losing the public's trust.

"I am resigning from NPR, a great American institution where I have worked for 25 years," Berliner wrote in an email to CEO Katherine Maher. "I respect the integrity of my colleagues and wish for NPR to thrive and do important journalism. But I cannot work in a newsroom where I am disparaged by a new CEO whose divisive views confirm the very problems at NPR I cite in my Free Press essay."

NPR and Maher declined to comment on his resignation.

The Free Press, an online site embraced by journalists who believe that the mainstream media has become too liberal, published Berliner's piece last Tuesday. In it, he argued that NPR's coverage has increasingly reflected a rigid progressive ideology. And he argued that the network's quest for greater diversity in its workforce — a priority under prior chief executive John Lansing – has not been accompanied by a diversity of viewpoints presented in NPR shows, podcasts or online coverage.

Later that same day, NPR pushed back against Berliner's critique.

"We're proud to stand behind the exceptional work that our desks and shows do to cover a wide range of challenging stories," NPR's chief news executive, Edith Chapin, wrote in a memo to staff . "We believe that inclusion — among our staff, with our sourcing, and in our overall coverage — is critical to telling the nuanced stories of this country and our world."

Yet Berliner's commentary has been embraced by conservative and partisan Republican critics of the network, including former President Donald Trump and the activist Christopher Rufo.

Rufo is posting a parade of old social media posts from Maher, who took over NPR last month. In two examples, she called Trump a racist and also seemed to minimize the effects of rioting in 2020. Rufo is using those to rally public pressure for Maher's ouster, as he did for former Harvard University President Claudine Gay .

Others have used the moment to call for the elimination of federal funding for NPR – less than one percent of its roughly $300 million annual budget – and local public radio stations, which derive more of their funding from the government.

NPR names tech executive Katherine Maher to lead in turbulent era

Berliner reiterated in his resignation letter that he does not support such calls.

In a brief interview, he condemned a statement Maher issued Friday in which she suggested that he had questioned "whether our people are serving our mission with integrity, based on little more than the recognition of their identity." She called that "profoundly disrespectful, hurtful, and demeaning."

Berliner subsequently exchanged emails with Maher, but she did not address those comments.

"It's been building up," Berliner said of his decision to resign, "and it became clear it was on today."

For publishing his essay in The Free Press and appearing on its podcast, NPR had suspended Berliner for five days without pay. Its formal rebuke noted he had done work outside NPR without its permission, as is required, and shared proprietary information.

(Disclosure: Like Berliner, I am part of NPR's Business Desk. He has edited many of my past stories. But he did not see any version of this article or participate in its preparation before it was posted publicly.)

Earlier in the day, Berliner forwarded to NPR editors and other colleagues a note saying he had "never questioned" their integrity and had been trying to raise these issues within the newsroom for more than seven years.

What followed was an email he had sent to newsroom leaders after Trump's 2016 win. He wrote then: "Primarily for the sake of our journalism, we can't align ourselves with a tribe. So we don't exist in a cocoon that blinds us to the views and experience of tens of millions of our fellow citizens."

Berliner's critique has inspired anger and dismay within the network. Some colleagues said they could no longer trust him after he chose to publicize such concerns rather than pursue them as part of ongoing newsroom debates, as is customary. Many signed a letter to Maher and Edith Chapin, NPR's chief news executive. They asked for clarity on, among other things, how Berliner's essay and the resulting public controversy would affect news coverage.

Yet some colleagues privately said Berliner's critique carried some truth. Chapin also announced monthly reviews of the network's coverage for fairness and diversity - including diversity of viewpoint.

She said in a text message earlier this week that that initiative had been discussed long before Berliner's essay, but "Now seemed [the] time to deliver if we were going to do it."

She added, "Healthy discussion is something we need more of."

Disclosure: This story was reported and written by NPR Media Correspondent David Folkenflik and edited by Deputy Business Editor Emily Kopp and Managing Editor Gerry Holmes. Under NPR's protocol for reporting on itself, no NPR corporate official or news executive reviewed this story before it was posted publicly.

• Katherine Maher
• uri berliner