Cambridge B2 Writing: Opinion Essay Structure (B2)
B2 ⏱ 5 minutes
Cambridge B2 Writing: Opinion Essay Structure
The 5-Paragraph Framework
| Paragraph | Function | Target Word Count |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Introduction | Introduce the topic + state your thesis (your opinion) | 40–50 words |
| 2. Body 1 | First argument in favour of your thesis + example | 60–70 words |
| 3. Body 2 | Second argument in favour of your thesis + example | 60–70 words |
| 4. Counter-argument | Acknowledge the opposing view + refute it | 50–60 words |
| 5. Conclusion | Restate thesis (in different words) + closing statement | 30–40 words |
Total target: 240–280 words. Never exceed 300 at B2 — quality over quantity.
Key Phrases for Each Paragraph
In recent years, … has become a widely debated topic. / There is no doubt that … raises important questions. / It is often argued that… / This essay will argue that…
To begin with… / A further point is… / For instance… / This is clearly illustrated by… / Evidence suggests that…
Admittedly… / It could be argued that… / While it is true that… / However… / Nevertheless… / Despite this…
In conclusion… / To sum up… / Taking everything into account… / It is clear that… / For these reasons, I firmly believe that…
Common B2 Essay Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t use contractions in formal writing — write do not, not don’t
- Don’t use “I think” in the body — use It is clear that… or Evidence suggests…
- Don’t repeat the question wording — paraphrase it in your introduction
- Don’t write a list — every point needs a sentence of explanation or an example
- Do begin your conclusion with something other than “In conclusion” at least once
Practice Task — Plan a B2 Essay
Topic: “Social media does more harm than good.”
Complete the outline below. You do NOT need to write the full essay — planning is the skill.
| Paragraph | Your plan (notes only) |
|---|---|
| Introduction | Paraphrase topic. State your position: agree or disagree? |
| Body 1 | Argument + one real-world example |
| Body 2 | Second argument + one real-world example |
| Counter-argument | What would someone who disagrees say? How do you refute it? |
| Conclusion | Restate your thesis differently. End with a forward-looking statement. |
Show Sample Outline (Agree position)
Introduction: Social media has transformed communication globally, but growing evidence suggests the negative effects outweigh the benefits. This essay will argue that social media does more harm than good.
Body 1: Mental health — studies link heavy social media use to increased anxiety and depression, particularly in teenagers. Example: the documented rise in self-image issues among adolescent girls following increased Instagram usage.
Body 2: Misinformation spreads rapidly on social platforms, shaping public opinion without verification. Example: false health information during recent global health crises.
Counter-argument: Admittedly, social media enables connection across distances and has empowered social movements. However, these benefits can largely be achieved through other means, and do not outweigh the documented harms.
Conclusion: Taking everything into account, the psychological and social damage caused by social media outweighs its advantages. Until effective regulation is in place, individuals and governments must approach these platforms with caution.
Takeaway
Independent project. Not affiliated with, endorsed by, or accredited by Cambridge University Press & Assessment. Confers no qualification.
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