Reading & WritingA2 Key for Schools Exam Guide
Reading and Writing is scored on the Cambridge English Scale (A2 Key range about 120-150). You need around 120 to pass at CEFR A2 level, with lifetime validity.
Tested Skills
Question Types
Task Types
A2 Key for Schools Reading & Writing
Reading: Multiple Matching & Multiple Choice
10 questionsYou read short notices, messages and texts and answer simple comprehension questions.
Strategies:
- •Read the question first so you know exactly what to look for.
- •Don't worry about every word — focus on the words that match the question.
Reading: Gap-fill (Vocabulary & Grammar)
10 questionsYou choose the right word or grammar form to complete sentences and a short text.
Strategies:
- •Look at the words around the gap to decide what kind of word fits.
- •Learn common everyday vocabulary in topic groups like school, food and hobbies.
Writing: Short Message & Story
10 questionsYou write a short note or email (around 25 words) and a short story (around 35 words).
Strategies:
- •Answer all three content points in the message to get full marks.
- •Use simple linking words like 'and', 'but' and 'because' to join your ideas.
Golden Tips
- ✓Manage your time so you leave enough minutes for the writing parts.
- ✓Practise reading short real-world texts like signs, menus and messages.
- ✓Build a notebook of everyday A2 vocabulary and review it often.
- ✓Always check spelling and capital letters before you finish.
Common Mistakes
- ✗Writing too few words and missing some content points.
- ✗Spending too long on reading and rushing the writing.
- ✗Choosing a word that has the right meaning but the wrong grammar.
- ✗Forgetting to use full stops and capital letters.
Preparation Resources
Recommended resources for Reading & Writing section
A2 Key for Schools Handbook
The official Cambridge handbook explaining every Reading and Writing task.
Cambridge A2 Key for Schools Practice Tests
Full sample papers so you can practise under real exam conditions.
Everyday English Vocabulary List
A topic-based word list covering school, family, food and free time.
Start A2 Key for Schools Reading & Writing Preparation
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