FCE Report Writing: Mastering the Language Criterion

1 Understanding the Language Criterion

Today we’re exploring what ‘Language’ really means in Cambridge assessment. This criterion focuses on two key areas: vocabulary and grammar. Examiners are looking for a wide range of sophisticated vocabulary used accurately and appropriately, along with varied grammatical structures that demonstrate control and flexibility.

At B2 level, your writing should show command of less common lexical items and the ability to use them naturally. Grammar should include both simple and complex forms, with errors that rarely impede understanding. Common misconceptions include thinking that using fancy words alone is enough – in fact, examiners want to see precise and appropriate word choices that fit the context perfectly.

2 Sample Report with Language Issues

Task: Write a report for your college principal about problems with student facilities and suggest improvements.

[Maria’s response follows]

REPORT ON STUDENT FACILITIES

Purpose
This report looks at problems with student facilities and gives ideas to make them better.

Current Problems
The cafeteria is bad. The food is not good and there isn’t enough space. Students must wait in long lines to get food. Also, the chairs are old and broken.

The study areas are not good too. There is lots of noise and the computers don’t work well. Students can’t find places to study because it’s always full.

Suggestions
I think we need to:
– Make the cafeteria bigger
– Buy new chairs
– Get better food
– Fix the computers
– Make more quiet places to study

Conclusion
The facilities need to be better. If we do these things, students will be more happy and can study better.

3 Reflection Questions

Before we look at some expert analysis in our next session, take some time to consider:

– How does Maria’s limited vocabulary range affect the professional tone expected in a report?
– What systematic grammar errors can you identify that reduce the writing’s effectiveness?
– Which specific language improvements would help achieve proper report formality?
– How could the implementation of more sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures enhance Maria’s recommendations?

In our next session, I’ll show you exactly how to transform Maria’s weak language into a Band 5 model response that achieves top marks in this criterion.