Helpdesk Training Article
From January 2024 we are removing the optional set text questions in the B2 First for Schools and C2 Proficiency Writing papers.
Some of our exams have optional set text questions as part of the Writing paper. These exams are:
- B2 First for Schools - previously known as Cambridge English: First for Schools (FCE for Schools)
- C2 Proficiency - previously known as Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)
The set text question is in Part 2 of the Writing paper for these exams and is one of four questions you can choose from during this part. You should not attempt the optional set text question in Part 2 unless you have the necessary vocabulary and understanding of the text to answer the task set. Teachers are best placed to judge which, if any, of the set texts and/or film versions may be appropriate and stimulating for a given teaching situation.
B2 First (previously known as Cambridge English: First) and C1 Advanced (previously known as Cambridge English: Advanced) were updated in 2015 and set texts are no longer used.
Please see below set texts confirmed to date:
B2 First for Schools
| Set Text | Further information | |
|---|---|---|
January 2023 - December 2023 |
F. Scott Fitzgerald: The Great Gatsby1 |
Click here |
1 Pearson Level 5 Edition. Teachers may choose to prepare candidates for questions on this set text by studying any film version of The Great Gatsby, as well as, or instead of, the book.
C2 Proficiency
| Set Texts | Further information | |
|---|---|---|
January 2022 - December 2023 |
Jane Austen: Northanger Abbey2David Nicholls: Us3 |
Click here |
2 Any edition. Teachers may choose to prepare candidates for questions on this text by studying the film directed by Jon Jones (2007) as well as, or instead of, the novel.
3 Any edition. Teachers may choose to prepare candidates for questions on this set text by studying the BBC television mini-series directed by Geoffrey Sax (2020) as well as, or instead of, the novel.
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