How to Write a Story for B2 First: Structure, Useful Phrases & Example

How to Write a Story for B2 First

Writing a story for the B2 First for Schools (FCEfS) exam allows you to be creative — but only within very clear boundaries. Successful stories combine imagination with control, showing the examiner that you can organise ideas, use narrative tenses accurately, and keep your writing focused. Below is a practical, step-by-step guide on how to write a story for B2 First for Schools (FCEfS).

One important note: Cambridge currently lists story as a Part 2 option for B2 First for Schools, while the standard B2 First Writing paper has other Part 2 task types. The Writing paper has 2 parts, lasts 1 hour 20 minutes, and Part 2 answers are 140–190 words.

Story Structure for B2 Learners

Before we look at the example, let’s go step by step and see how to write a story for B2 First for Schools in a clear and organised way. A simple B2 story usually follows this structure:

1. Beginning

Start by setting the scene. Tell the reader who, where and when.

Examples:

• It was a cold Friday evening when Tom missed the last bus home.
• Lucy had always loved old bookshops, but that afternoon she found one she had never seen before.
• I was walking home from school when something strange happened.

2. Problem or surprise

A story becomes interesting when something changes.

Examples:

• Suddenly, the lights went out.
• To my surprise, there was a small envelope under the door.
• Just as I was about to leave, I heard someone calling my name.

3. Action

Show what the character did next. This is the main part of the story.

Examples:

• I decided to follow the sound.
• She opened the letter with shaking hands.
• Although he was frightened, he knew he had to do something.

4. Ending

Your ending should feel complete. It can be happy, funny, emotional or surprising.

Examples:

• From that day on, I never judged people too quickly.
• It was the strangest journey home I had ever had.
• Only then did I realise that the letter had been meant for me all along.

B2 First Story Example

Task

Your English teacher has asked you to write a story. Your story must begin with this sentence:

When I opened the door, I knew something was wrong.

Write your story in 140–190 words.

Example answer

When I opened the door, I knew something was wrong. The house was completely silent, although my brother usually played music as loudly as possible after school.

I put my bag down and walked slowly into the kitchen. There was a note on the table. It said, “Don’t go upstairs.” Of course, that was exactly what I did.

As I climbed the stairs, I heard a strange noise coming from my bedroom. My heart was beating fast. I pushed the door open and saw my brother standing in the middle of the room, surrounded by balloons, ribbons and a huge chocolate cake.

“Surprise!” he shouted.

At first, I was too shocked to speak. I had completely forgotten my own birthday because I had been so worried about an exam that morning. A few seconds later, my parents jumped out from behind the wardrobe, laughing.

In the end, nothing was wrong at all. It turned out to be the best surprise I had ever had.

Why this is a good B2 story

This story works well because it:

• uses the opening sentence correctly
• has a clear beginning, middle and ending
• creates suspense
• uses past tenses naturally
• includes descriptive phrases
• finishes with a clear and satisfying ending

Useful Language for Writing Tasks 

You can use these phrases to make your story more natural and organised.

Starting the story

• It all began when…
• I will never forget the day when…
• At first, everything seemed normal.
• It was supposed to be an ordinary day.
• I had no idea that my life was about to change.

Moving the story forward

• A few minutes later…
• After a while…
• Meanwhile…
• Just then…
• As soon as I arrived…
• By the time we got there…

Creating suspense

• Suddenly…
• Without warning…
• To my surprise…
• I could hardly believe my eyes.
• My heart was beating fast.
• Something did not feel right.

Ending the story

• In the end…
• Eventually…
• From that day on…
• Looking back, I realised that…
• It was an experience I would never forget.

Common Mistakes in B2 Story Writing

1. Writing too much introduction

Do not spend half the story introducing the characters. Start quickly and move into the action.

Weak:

My name is Anna. I am fifteen years old. I live with my parents and my brother. I go to school every day.

Better:

I was walking home from school when I noticed a strange man standing outside our house.

2. Forgetting the sentence or words from the task

If the task gives you a first sentence, you must use it exactly. If it gives you words or ideas to include, make sure they appear naturally in your story.

3. Using only Past Simple

Past Simple is important, but a good B2 story often uses several narrative tenses.

Examples:

• I was walking home when I heard a noise.
• She had never seen the man before.
• They were waiting outside when the storm started.

4. Making the ending too sudden

Avoid endings like:

Then I woke up. It was a dream.

This can feel lazy unless it is done in a very clever way. Try to write an ending that connects naturally to the story.

5. Writing a story with no emotion or description

A story should not sound like a police report.

Weak:

I went to the station. I saw a bag. I opened it. There was money inside. I called the police.

Better:

When I arrived at the empty station, I noticed a small black bag under the bench. My hands were shaking as I opened it.

FAQ – How to Write a Story for B2 First for Schools (FCEfS)

What is the word limit for a story in B2 First for Schools?

The required length is 140–190 words. Writing outside this range may affect your score.

How is story writing marked in B2 First for Schools?

Examiners assess Content, Communicative Achievement, Organisation, and Language.

Can I use dialogue in a B2 First story?

Yes, but only in moderation. One or two short lines of dialogue are enough.

Do I need a moral or message at the end of the story?

Not required, but a short reflection or realisation often improves the ending.

Related posts:

How to Write an Essay for B2 First (FCE) 

How to Write an Article for B2 First (FCE) 

Writing a Book Review 

Narrative Tenses in English 

Linking Words and Phrases for Time 

Descriptive Adjectives in English 

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