English Language Assessment
B1 Preliminary, formerly known as Cambridge English: Preliminary (PET), is one of our Cambridge English Qualifications. It is the English language exam that shows you have mastered the basics.
Key facts
| CEFR level: | B1 What's this? |
|---|---|
| Scale score: | 140–159 What's this? |
| Test format: | Computer or paper-based |
| No. of papers: | 4 |
| Exam length: | About 2 hours 20 minutes |
Exam updates 2020
To make sure our exams are up to date with the latest research in language learning and teaching, we update them regularly. A2 Key, A2 Key for Schools, B1 Preliminary and B1 Preliminary for Schools have undergone a thorough review to ensure that our exams continue to remain relevant to the needs of schools and learners.
The new exam formats will start being used from January 2020. The changes include:
- new and updated tasks across all of the papers
- better alignment between the exams, showing clearer progression from one exam to the next
- an update to the way that grades are reported, bringing the exams in line with higher level Cambridge English Qualifications
- the separation of the Reading and Writing papers in B1 Preliminary and B1 Preliminary for Schools.
A B1 Preliminary qualification shows that you can:
- read simple textbooks and articles in English
- write letters and emails on everyday subjects
- take meeting notes
- show awareness of opinions and mood in spoken and written English.
Reasons to choose B1 Preliminary:
- Develop your ability to communicate in English for practical tasks and situations.
- Gain a valuable qualification that is accepted worldwide.
- Improve your work, study and travel prospects.
Find your local centre to book your exam
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As an enthusiast and expert in the field of English Language Assessment, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion. My understanding of language learning and assessment is not only theoretical but also practical, gained through hands-on involvement in various aspects of the field. I have closely followed the developments in language learning and teaching, staying abreast of the latest research and trends.
Now, let's delve into the concepts used in the provided article from Cambridge English:
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Cambridge English Qualifications:
- The article introduces B1 Preliminary as one of the Cambridge English Qualifications. These qualifications are a set of standardized tests that assess English language proficiency at various levels.
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CEFR Level (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages):
- B1 Preliminary is associated with CEFR level B1, indicating an intermediate level of English proficiency. The CEFR provides a common basis for the recognition of language qualifications.
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Scale Score:
- The scale score for B1 Preliminary falls within the range of 140–159. This score provides a numerical representation of a candidate's performance on the exam.
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Test Format:
- The exam is available in both computer and paper-based formats, offering flexibility to candidates. The article doesn't provide detailed information about the specific sections of the exam, but it mentions there are four papers.
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Exam Length:
- The B1 Preliminary exam has an approximate duration of 2 hours and 20 minutes, testing various language skills.
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Exam Updates 2020:
- The article highlights updates made to the B1 Preliminary exam in 2020. These updates are aimed at ensuring the exams align with the latest research in language learning and teaching. Changes include new and updated tasks, better alignment between exams, and modifications to grading procedures.
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Skills Demonstrated by B1 Preliminary Qualification:
- The article outlines the practical language skills demonstrated by individuals with a B1 Preliminary qualification. These skills include the ability to read simple textbooks and articles, write letters and emails on everyday subjects, take meeting notes, and show awareness of opinions and mood in spoken and written English.
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Reasons to Choose B1 Preliminary:
- The article provides compelling reasons for choosing B1 Preliminary, emphasizing the development of practical communication skills in English, the global acceptance of the qualification, and the positive impact on work, study, and travel prospects.
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Local Exam Centers:
- The article encourages individuals to find their local exam centers to book the B1 Preliminary exam, highlighting the global accessibility of Cambridge English assessments.
In conclusion, the article from Cambridge English provides valuable insights into the B1 Preliminary qualification, showcasing its significance in assessing and advancing English language proficiency. The emphasis on practical communication skills and global recognition positions B1 Preliminary as a valuable asset for individuals seeking to enhance their language abilities.
