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📖B1 Preliminary for Schools45 dk
ReadingB1 Preliminary for Schools Exam Guide
45
minutes
32
questions
3
task type
Reading is scored on the Cambridge English Scale (B1 Preliminary range about 140-170). You need around 140 to pass at CEFR B1 level, with lifetime validity.
Tested Skills
Detailed reading comprehensionGist understandingInferenceVocabulary in contextSpecific information
Question Types
1Multiple Choice (Signs & Texts)
2Multiple Matching
3Gapped Text & Open Cloze
Task Types
B1 Preliminary for Schools Reading
1
Multiple Choice (Signs & Texts)
10 questionsYou read short texts and signs and choose the correct meaning from the options.
Strategies:
- •Think about where you would see each sign in real life.
- •Eliminate options that are clearly wrong before choosing.
2
Multiple Matching
10 questionsYou match descriptions of people to the texts that best suit their needs.
Strategies:
- •Underline what each person wants before you scan the texts.
- •Look for paraphrases — the text rarely uses the same words as the question.
3
Gapped Text & Open Cloze
10 questionsYou complete a longer text by choosing sentences and the correct grammar words.
Strategies:
- •Read the whole sentence to check that linking words make sense.
- •Use grammar clues like pronouns and tenses to fill open gaps.
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Golden Tips
- ✓Skim each text first for general meaning, then read for detail.
- ✓Build your vocabulary so you can recognise paraphrases quickly.
- ✓Practise reading articles and stories written for teenagers.
- ✓Keep an eye on the clock so you finish every part.
⚠️
Common Mistakes
- ✗Choosing an answer because it repeats a word from the text.
- ✗Spending too long on one difficult question.
- ✗Ignoring grammar clues in the open cloze gaps.
- ✗Leaving questions blank instead of making a sensible guess.
Preparation Resources
Recommended resources for Reading section
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Practice
B1 Preliminary for Schools Handbook
Official guide describing each Reading task and how it is marked.
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Guide
Cambridge B1 Preliminary Practice Tests
Complete sample reading papers with answer keys for self-study.
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Video
Graded Readers (Level B1)
Short books at B1 level to build reading speed and vocabulary.
Start B1 Preliminary for Schools Reading Preparation
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