B1 Preliminary for Schools Handbook

Completing the answer sheet
(paper-based test only)
• All answers must go on an answer sheet.
• Candidates should use a pencil to complete the answer sheet. 
• There is no additional time allowed for completing the answer 
sheet: candidates must do this within the 45 minutes allowed 
for the test.
• For the Reading component, candidates shade a lozenge on the 
answer sheet to show their answer for Parts 1–5 and write their 
answers on the correct part of the answer sheet for Part 6.
Completing the computer-based test
(computer-based test only)
• All answers are typed directly onto the computer.
• Candidates may take pens and pencils and a bottle of water 
into the exam room, but nothing else (including bags and 
anything electronic).
• Candidates should listen carefully to the instructions which the 
invigilator gives and follow the instructions on the computer 
screen.
• Candidates watch a short tutorial before the test.
• There is a timer on the screen which tells candidates how much 
time they have left.
• Candidates may make notes on paper during the exam. They 
must leave these notes on their desk at the end of the exam.
 Quick links to resources
Parents
cambridgeenglish.org/learning-english/ 
parents-and-children/information-for-parents
• 
Information for parents
Learners
cambridgeenglish.org/exams/preliminary-for-schools/
preparation
• 
Information for candidates guide
Teachers
cambridgeenglish.org/exams/preliminary-for-schools/
preparation
cambridgeenglish.org/teaching-english/ 
resources-for-teachers
Language specifications: Page 66
Topics list: Page 68
• 
Vocabulary list (including topics list)
• 
Free teaching resources
• 
Lesson plans
Paper 1

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12
Advice by task
Candidates should practise these exam strategies regularly in class. 
See these tasks in full from page 13.
Reading Part 1
THE TASK
u
In this part, candidates have five short texts. With each text is one
multiple-choice question with three options A, B and C.
HOW TO APPROACH THE TASK
u
Candidates should read the text and decide what situation it would
appear in.
u
They can use the visual information (layout, location etc.) to help identify 
the context.
u
Next they should read the three options.
u
Candidates then need to compare each option with the text before 
choosing an answer.
u
Explain that it is important to read the chosen option again to check that 
the meanings match.
ASSESSMENT
u
This part tests the candidate’s understanding of various kinds of short texts.