book review cpe

Cambridge C2 Proficiciency (CPE): How to Write a Review

• Mandatory task: no
• Word count: 280-320
• Main characteristics: descriptive, narrative, evaluative, recommendations/suggestions
• Register: depends on the task

Introduction

A review may be about a book, magazine, film, play, or concert, but it may also be about, for example, an exhibition. The target reader is specified in the question, so the candidate knows not only what register is appropriate, but also has an idea about the kind of information to include. A review does not merely require a general description of, for example, an event or publication, but it specifies the particular aspects to be considered. For example, the review may employ narrative, as well as descriptive and evaluative language, and a range of vocabulary relating, for example, to literature and the media such as cinema or TV. Source: Cambridge English Assessment: C2 Proficiency Handbook for teachers

Reviews are one type of text in Cambridge C2 Advanced that you don’t have to do but you can choose to do it together with articles , reports and formal/informal letters while essays are the only mandatory task in the writing test.

One of the easier tasks

I find reviews to be quite popular among my students because they are very common and really part of our everyday lives. Whenever we try to check out a new restaurant, film, book or experience when we are on holiday, we have a look at what other people think, who have already bought or done it.

That’s why writing reviews comes fairly naturally to many people simply because we see them all the time. We know that a good review is interesting, informative and persuasive and if you can do these things in the exam, you are good to go.

Of course, there are always certain criteria you need to keep in mind, but that’s what I’m here for, so let’s get into it.

What a typical review task looks like

First of all, it is a good idea to have a look at a task and get as much information from it as possible.

We usually want to find out three things that help us prepare for writing a great review:

• What is the topic of the task?
• What exactly do I have to include in the review?
• Who is going to read the review?

The topic of the review is children’s books and you have to talk about one that you enjoyed as child and would recommend even today. To be more specific, you have to say what you liked about it and why you think children today would still get something out of it .

Last but not least, you are writing for the readers of a literary magazine, which tells us that we shouldn’t write in a style that it too informal, but I also wouldn’t write as formally as in an essay . So, we ought to keep the style of language neutral , meaning that we can include some phrasal verbs and other smaller informal features like contractions (e.g. I’m or don’t), but I recommend not using any colloquial expressions that we typically use in spoken English.

How to organise your review

Reviews in C2 Proficiency can normally be structured in a similar way because the different elements we need to include are always the same: a descriptive part, something we need to discuss in a bit more detail, and a recommendation.

Title & introduction

Description, recommendation.

This commonly works very well. You can, of course split up the descriptive part or the discussion part in several paragraphs if it makes sense and at this level, you should definitely be able to make any task work for you, but this is a good basic scaffold that you can utilise in your writing.

Don’t forget to plan your review

Creating a plan before you start writing is an essential element of a good strategy in C2 Proficiency and I strongly suggest not skipping this step. It helps you to put your thoughts in order, which, in turn, can save you a lot of time when you are bringing them to paper.

The easiest way to create a plan is to take the paragraph structure you want to apply and to make some notes for each part:

• Title & introduction : Pippi Longstocking; Astrid Lindgren; 1945; childhood memories
• Description : young girl living by herself with her horse and monkey; super strength; Tommy and Annika; brave; adventures
• Discussion : I love her fearlessness, adventures and colourful world; children nowadays overprotected –> can benefit from a strong character like Pippi
• Recommendation : strongly recommend it; good entry to literature; good example of badass girl

Making the plan was a 4-minute effort and now I’m set and ready for my awesome review. The plan will keep me on track and I won’t have to think about the content anymore. All I have to do is turn my notes into full sentences and focus on good language.

The different parts of a review

Everything I’ve told you up to this point has been about getting yourself ready for the actual writing. We have a paragraph structure we can trust as well as an outline of our ideas. Now, we are going to look at an example and I will explain to you what my thought process looks like.

The introduction in a review has a very straightforward purpose: engage the reader and make interesting from the beginning. I like doing that by asking a question , which involves the reader immediately, including some kind of personal anecdote as well as some very basic facts about the topic of the review , in this case the name of the book and the author.

Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren Do you still know your favourite story from your childhood? I remember listening to my dad reading stories to me and my sister after lunch every day and my most treasured book was about a brave little girl called Pippi Longstocking written by the Swedish author Astrid Lindgren in 1945.

Every review gets a title, which doesn’t have to be anything spectacular but make sure that your text has one. Then, you can see that I basically just included the different things I mentioned earlier: a question (“Do you still know …?”), a personal anecdote (“I remember listening …”) and some factual info about the book itself. Mission accomplished. The reader is hooked and we can move on to the next part.

The second paragraph is there to talk a little bit more about the subject of your review . In the case of a book you want to give more information, for example, who the main characters are, where and when the story is set, etc. For a review of a restaurant you might mention the location and the cuisine they serve there or why you went there in the first place. I guess you get the idea. Describe what the task wants you to describe and make sure that your language is on point .

Pippi is a nine-year-old girl who lives in her own house called Villa Villekulla together with her meerkat, Mr. Nillson, and a horse. Not only is she an exceptionally brave girl that goes on many adventures with her best friends Annika and Tommy, but she also possesses superhuman strength, which she often shows off throughout the story, for example, by lifting the horse in the air with her friends sitting on it.

Here you can see that I give a breakdown of the main characters as well as the general setting of the story. You don’t want to give too many spoilers because no one likes that, right?

Thanks to my plan I didn’t have to worry about the content, but I was able to focus on the language. I’ve included some nice vocabulary and grammar (not only, but also; exceptionally brave; superhuman strength; which; shows off) to keep the reader engaged .

The discussion portion of a review always asks you to give your opinion on some aspect of the experience . In our example task, we have to say what we enjoyed about the book when we read it and why we think children today might still like it.

We could definitely split this part into two paragraphs, but I made it work in just one.

The excitement I felt back then is still very vivid in my memories. I loved Pippi’s fearlessness and her constant appetite for adventure as well as the colourful world with all its odd characters Astrid Lindgren brings to life. I’m sure that I would still enjoy the book if I ever decided to pick it up again and its timeless character makes Pippi Longstocking a great choice even for children today. In a world where many parents try to bubble wrap their kids and control every aspect of their lives, a rebel like Pippi can be the perfect antidote to that. Young people can learn what it means to confront and even thrive in the face of a challenge instead of avoiding it, which I believe is a very useful quality to have in life.

First, I give reasons for why I liked the story (fearlessness, appetite for adventure, colourful world) and then I project those aspects onto children’s lives today with their very scheduled weeks and little room for creativity and enjoyment while being encapsulated by their helicopter parents (Google it, it’s a real expression.).

With the first sentence I link this paragraph to the introduction and the different aspects in this section are all well connected using different cohesive devices (as well as, I would still enjoy; a great choice even for children today). Use the freedom you have in a review to link everything well and make it as easy as possible for the reader to follow your logical arguments.

The last part of a review should always be a final recommendation. This doesn’t have to be anything special, but this is why we read a review in the first place. We want to know if the writer thinks we should consume or experience the same thing or not.

Long story short, I would highly recommend the story to parents who want to offer their children an entry point into literature and a world full of wonder and excitement that they can share with Pippi Longstocking in a time when their daughters and sons need it more than ever.

Once again, I didn’t reinvent the wheel here. I make my recommendation and try to connect this paragraph to the previous one (“… in a time when their daughters and sons need it more than ever”). With a sprinkle of interesting language (long story short; a world full of wonder and excitement) we bring our review to a close.

Feeling ready for a review now?

By now, you probably can’t wait to start practising. Reviews in Cambridge C2 Proficiency are really not that difficult, especially if you know what you’re doing. Keep in mind the different typical aspects of a review (paragraph structure, planning, interesting and engaging language) and I don’t see how you can ever write a bad review ever again.

If you are interested, I can also help you with some writing feedback or even private classes . Until then, all the best.

Lots of love,

Teacher Phill 🙂

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The Ultimate Guide to CPE (Cambridge English: Proficiency)

Cambridge English: Proficiency, also known as CPE, is the highest level of English language examination offered by Cambridge Assessment English. It is designed for learners who have reached an exceptional level of English proficiency and wish to showcase their language skills for academic or professional purposes. This comprehensive guide will provide you with detailed information about the different parts of the CPE exam, the scoring system, and strategies to successfully tackle each section ( find out other important exams here !).

CPE: Reading and Use of English

The Reading and Use of English section is a significant component of the Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) exam. This section is designed to assess your advanced-level reading comprehension skills as well as your ability to use English accurately and effectively. It consists of various tasks that challenge your understanding of vocabulary, grammar, and reading strategies. In this section, we will explore the format of the Reading and Use of English section, along with effective strategies to excel in each task.

Format of the Reading and Use of English Section: The Reading and Use of English section is divided into several parts, each testing different aspects of your language proficiency. Let’s delve into each part:

Part 1: Multiple-Choice Cloze

In this task, you are presented with a text with gaps, and you must choose the most appropriate word from four options to fill in each gap. This part assesses your knowledge of vocabulary and grammar, as well as your ability to comprehend the overall meaning of the text.

Strategies for Part 1:

• Context clues : Read the entire sentence and the surrounding sentences to identify contextual clues that can help you determine the correct answer.
• Part of speech : Pay attention to the grammatical function of the missing word and choose an option that fits syntactically and semantically within the sentence.
• Elimination technique : If you are unsure about an answer, eliminate the options that are clearly incorrect, increasing your chances of selecting the correct answer.

Part 2: Open Cloze

In this task, you are provided with a text containing gaps, and you must fill in each gap with one word. The focus is on vocabulary and collocations, and the text usually has a theme or topic.

Strategies for Part 2:

• Read the whole text : Before attempting to fill in the gaps, read the entire text to understand its context and overall meaning.
• Identify the grammatical function : Determine what part of speech is required to fill each gap, whether it’s a noun, verb, adjective, adverb, or preposition.
• Pay attention to collocations : Look for words or phrases that typically collocate with the missing word and choose an option that fits naturally within the sentence.

Part 3: Word Formation

This part tests your ability to form words correctly using a given root word. You need to change the form of the word (e.g., noun to adjective, verb to noun) to fit the sentence.

Strategies for Part 3:

• Identify the word class : Determine the grammatical category (noun, verb, adjective, adverb) required to complete the sentence.
• Understand prefixes and suffixes : Familiarize yourself with common prefixes and suffixes to help you derive the correct form of the word.
• Check for spelling and grammar : Ensure that the word you form is spelled correctly and fits grammatically within the sentence.

Part 4: Key Word Transformations

In this task, you are provided with a sentence containing a gap, and you must rewrite the sentence using a given key word, so that the meaning remains the same. The word limit for your response is usually 3-6 words.

Strategies for Part 4:

• Understand the meaning of the original sentence : Analyze the meaning of the sentence and identify any specific relationships between the key word and the other elements in the sentence.
• Maintain the grammatical structure : Ensure that your transformed sentence maintains the same grammatical structure as the original sentence.
• Use synonyms and paraphrasing : Employ synonyms and paraphrasing techniques to express the same meaning while adhering to the word limit.

Part 5: Multiple-Choice Reading

In this part, you are presented with a text followed by multiple-choice questions. The questions assess your understanding of specific information, main ideas, opinions, and the writer’s purpose.

Strategies for Part 5:

• Skim the text : Quickly read the text to get a sense of the main topic and the organization of the text.
• Focus on keywords : Pay attention to keywords or phrases in both the questions and the text to locate the relevant information more efficiently.
• Elimination technique : Eliminate options that are clearly incorrect, narrowing down your choices to select the most appropriate answer.

Part 6: Gapped Text

This part consists of a text from which six sentences have been removed. You must choose the most suitable sentence from a list of options to fit into each gap.

Strategies for Part 6:

• Read the text first : Read the entire text carefully to understand its overall meaning and context.
• Identify the logical flow : Determine the logical order of the sentences by considering the organization and coherence of the text.
• Use contextual clues : Look for clues within the text to identify the information missing in each gap and select the sentence that best fits the gap both grammatically and logically.

Part 7: Multiple Matching

In this task, you are presented with several short texts or notices, followed by a list of statements. You must match each statement to the most suitable text or notice.

Strategies for Part 7:

• Skim the texts : Quickly read through the texts to grasp the general idea and identify their main topics.
• Analyze the statements: Carefully analyze each statement and try to identify keywords or phrases that correspond to information in the texts.
• Elimination technique : Eliminate options that do not match the texts, gradually narrowing down your choices to find the best matching statement for each text.

The Reading and Use of English section of the CPE exam challenges your language skills and requires a combination of reading comprehension, vocabulary knowledge, and grammatical accuracy. By familiarizing yourself with the format of each task and employing effective strategies, you can enhance your performance and increase your chances of success. Regular practice, extensive reading, and building a strong foundation in English grammar and vocabulary will significantly contribute to your overall readiness for this section. Good luck!

CPE: Writing

The Writing section of the Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) exam is designed to assess your ability to produce coherent, well-structured, and accurate written English. This section consists of various tasks that challenge your skills in different types of writing, such as essays, articles, letters, reports, and reviews. In this section, we will explore the format of the Writing section and provide you with effective strategies to excel in each task.

Format of the Writing Section: The Writing section of the CPE exam typically consists of two parts. Let’s examine each part and the specific tasks associated with them:

Part 1: Compulsory Essay

In this task, you are required to write an essay based on a given topic or prompt. The essay should be a discursive piece of writing in which you present and discuss different arguments or perspectives on the topic. Your essay should demonstrate a clear understanding of the topic, critical thinking skills, and the ability to organize your ideas effectively.

• Plan your essay : Before you start writing, spend a few minutes planning your essay. Outline the main points you want to discuss and the supporting arguments or examples you will use.
• Develop a clear structure : Divide your essay into paragraphs, with each paragraph focusing on a specific point or argument. Ensure a logical flow between paragraphs and use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect ideas.
• Provide evidence and examples : Support your arguments with relevant evidence, examples, or data to make your essay more persuasive and authoritative.
• Show a range of vocabulary and grammar : Demonstrate your linguistic proficiency by using a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures accurately. Avoid repetitive language and aim for clarity and precision in your expression.
• Edit and proofread : Allocate time at the end to review and edit your essay. Check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, as well as the overall coherence and cohesion of your writing.

Part 2: Situational Writing

In this part, you are presented with a situation or task, such as writing an article, a letter, a report, or a review. You must produce a piece of writing that fulfills the requirements of the task, adhering to the appropriate format and style.

• Analyze the task : Read the instructions and the information provided carefully, paying attention to the purpose, target audience, and required format of the writing task.
• Plan your response : Take a few minutes to brainstorm ideas, outline the structure of your writing, and determine the key points you want to address.
• Adapt to the task requirements : Ensure that your writing aligns with the specified format and style. For example, if you are writing a letter, consider the appropriate salutation, tone, and closing.
• Use a variety of language features : Employ a range of language features appropriate for the chosen genre. For instance, if you are writing an article, use rhetorical devices, persuasive language, and engaging introductions and conclusions.
• Edit and proofread : Allocate time at the end to review your writing. Check for spelling, grammar, punctuation, and coherence. Make sure that your writing flows smoothly and effectively conveys your intended message.

Additional Tips for the Writing Section:

• Read extensively : Developing a habit of reading a variety of texts, such as books, articles, and essays, can enhance your vocabulary, expose you to different writing styles, and improve your overall writing skills.
• Practice timed writing : Since the exam has a time limit, practice writing within the given time constraints to improve your ability to generate ideas, organize your thoughts, and write efficiently.
• Seek feedback : Ask a teacher, tutor, or native English speaker to review your writing and provide feedback. Focus on areas for improvement, such as grammar, vocabulary usage, and overall coherence.
• Expand your vocabulary : Continuously work on expanding your vocabulary by learning new words, idiomatic expressions, and collocations. Incorporate them into your writing to enhance your lexical range.
• Be aware of register and tone : Adapt your writing style to the appropriate register and tone for each task. Consider whether the writing should be formal or informal, academic or conversational, and adjust your language accordingly.

The Writing section of the CPE exam requires careful planning, strong organization, and the ability to express your ideas clearly and accurately. By familiarizing yourself with the format of each task, practicing a variety of writing styles, and implementing effective strategies, you can boost your performance in this section. Remember to allocate time for planning, editing, and proofreading to ensure that your writing is well-structured, coherent, and error-free. With consistent practice and a focus on developing your writing skills, you can approach the Writing section with confidence and achieve success in the CPE exam. Good luck!

CPE: Listening

Listening skills are an essential component of effective communication and play a crucial role in various aspects of our personal and professional lives. The Cambridge English Proficiency (CPE) exam assesses candidates’ ability to comprehend spoken English in a wide range of contexts and requires a high level of listening proficiency. This section will provide a detailed overview of the CPE Listening component, including its format, key skills tested, and strategies to improve your performance.

Format : The CPE Listening component consists of four parts, with a total of six recordings. The recordings are played twice, and there is a short pause between each listening. The four parts are as follows:

• Multiple-choice questions : This part assesses your ability to understand the main ideas, specific information, and attitudes or opinions expressed in the recordings. You will listen to three separate recordings, and for each one, you will answer six multiple-choice questions.
• Gapped text : In this part, you will hear a monologue or dialogue with some words or phrases missing. Your task is to complete the gaps in the accompanying text. There are six gaps in total, and you will listen to two recordings.
• Multiple matching : This part tests your ability to recognize specific information, opinions, or attitudes from a longer recording. You will listen to one recording and match ten statements to the speakers in the recording.
• Multiple-choice questions with a key word : This part evaluates your ability to understand detailed information, opinions, or attitudes expressed in the recordings. You will listen to two separate recordings, and for each one, you will answer four multiple-choice questions with a keyword.

Key Skills Tested : The CPE Listening component assesses various listening skills, including:

• Comprehension of main ideas : You need to understand the overall theme or topic of the recordings and extract the main points effectively.
• Understanding specific information : This skill involves being able to identify and remember details such as names, dates, numbers, and other specific pieces of information.
• Recognizing attitudes and opinions : You must be able to understand the speakers’ attitudes, opinions, and feelings conveyed in the recordings.
• Inferring meaning : Sometimes, you may need to infer the meaning of a word or phrase based on the context or the speaker’s tone.
• Following the development of an argument : Certain recordings may present arguments or discussions where you need to follow the logical flow and understand the relationship between different ideas.

Strategies to Improve Performance:

• Develop active listening skills : Engage in regular listening practice by listening to a variety of English audio materials such as podcasts, news broadcasts, and speeches. Focus on understanding the main ideas, supporting details, and the overall message.
• Familiarize yourself with different accents : Exposure to various accents, including British, American, Australian, and others, will help you become accustomed to different pronunciation patterns and improve your listening comprehension.
• Practice note-taking : Develop effective note-taking techniques to capture key information while listening. This can help you remember details and organize your thoughts when answering questions.
• Expand your vocabulary : Enhance your vocabulary by studying words and phrases commonly used in different contexts. This will help you better understand the recordings and answer questions more accurately.
• Use practice materials : Utilize authentic CPE practice tests and listening exercises to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions asked in the exam. Analyze your mistakes and learn from them to improve your performance.
• Develop time management skills : During the exam, manage your time wisely. Read the questions before each listening task to get an idea of what information you need to focus on. Practice efficient scanning and skimming techniques to locate specific details quickly.
• Improve your overall language proficiency : Enhance your overall English language skills, including grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. A strong foundation in these areas will support your listening comprehension and enable you to understand the context and meaning of the recordings more effectively.

By understanding the format of the CPE Listening component, developing key skills, and implementing effective strategies, you can improve your performance and confidently approach this section of the exam. Regular practice and exposure to English audio materials will contribute significantly to your overall listening proficiency.

CPE: Speaking

The speaking component of the Cambridge English Proficiency (CPE) exam assesses your ability to communicate effectively in spoken English at an advanced level. This section requires you to demonstrate a range of speaking skills, including fluency, accuracy, coherence, and appropriateness of language use. In this detailed section, we will provide an overview of the CPE Speaking component, its format, key skills assessed, and strategies to improve your performance.

Format : The CPE Speaking component consists of four parts, and it is typically conducted in pairs or small groups. The four parts are as follows:

• Interview : In this part, the examiner will ask you a series of questions related to your personal experiences, opinions, or preferences. The questions may be based on a topic provided beforehand or spontaneously generated by the examiner.
• Long turn : In this part, you will be given two photographs and will need to speak for about one minute on a given topic related to the photographs. You will then engage in a discussion with the examiner and the other candidate.
• Collaborative task : You will be given a task that requires you to work with another candidate to discuss and make decisions. This task involves exchanging information, expressing and justifying opinions, and reaching a consensus.
• Discussion : In the final part, the examiner will ask you and the other candidate to discuss a topic related to the collaborative task. You will need to express your opinions, respond to your partner’s ideas, and engage in a meaningful discussion.

Key Skills Assessed : The CPE Speaking component evaluates a range of speaking skills, including:

• Fluency and coherence : You should be able to speak fluently with minimal hesitation, maintaining a smooth and coherent flow of ideas. Connecting words and phrases, organizing your thoughts logically, and using appropriate discourse markers contribute to coherent speaking.
• Accuracy and range of vocabulary : Demonstrate a wide range of vocabulary, including idiomatic expressions and collocations, to express yourself precisely and effectively. Use a variety of sentence structures and verb tenses accurately.
• Grammatical control : Display grammatical accuracy in your speech, including the use of appropriate verb forms, subject-verb agreement, articles, pronouns, and prepositions.
• Pronunciation and intonation : Communicate clearly and effectively by using correct pronunciation, stress, and intonation patterns. Articulate words and sounds accurately to ensure your message is easily understood.
• Interaction and engagement : Engage in meaningful interaction with the examiner and the other candidate by actively listening, responding appropriately, and asking follow-up questions. Show interest and involvement in the discussion.
• Practice speaking regularly : Engage in regular speaking practice with native English speakers or fellow English learners. Participate in conversation clubs, language exchanges, or online discussion forums to improve your fluency and confidence.
• Focus on pronunciation : Pay attention to your pronunciation and work on improving specific sounds or intonation patterns that may affect your clarity. Listen to native speakers, mimic their pronunciation, and practice speaking aloud to enhance your speaking skills.
• Expand your vocabulary : Continuously enrich your vocabulary by reading a variety of materials, such as books, articles, and newspapers. Make a habit of learning new words and using them in your daily conversations to improve your lexical range.
• Develop coherence and organization : Practice organizing your thoughts and ideas logically before speaking. Use discourse markers (e.g., however, moreover, on the other hand) to connect your ideas and provide a coherent structure to your speech.
• Seek feedback : Regularly seek feedback from teachers, language partners, or tutors to identify areas for improvement. Work on their suggestions and incorporate them into your speaking practice.
• Watch and listen to English media : Watch movies, TV shows, and videos in English to expose yourself to different accents, language styles, and cultural contexts. This will enhance your understanding of idiomatic expressions, intonation patterns, and conversational phrases.
• Be an active listener : Active listening is crucial for effective communication. Pay attention to the examiner’s questions, your partner’s ideas, and the context of the discussion. Show engagement through appropriate responses, clarifying questions, and thoughtful contributions.
• Practice time management : During the exam, manage your time effectively in each part. Be mindful of the allotted time for each task and ensure that you address all aspects of the task within the given time frame.

By familiarizing yourself with the format of the CPE Speaking component, honing the key skills assessed, and implementing effective strategies, you can improve your performance and approach this section with confidence. Regular practice, exposure to English conversations, and seeking feedback will contribute significantly to your speaking proficiency.

CPE: Scoring

The Cambridge English Proficiency (CPE) exam is scored based on a standardized system that assesses your proficiency in English at an advanced level. Understanding the scoring criteria is essential for evaluating your performance and setting realistic goals. In this detailed section, we will provide an overview of the CPE scoring system, including the grading scale, individual component scoring, and what scores represent in terms of language proficiency.

Grading Scale: The CPE exam uses a scoring system ranging from 200 to 230. The overall score is determined by aggregating the scores from all four components: Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. Each component is worth 20% of the overall score, while the remaining 20% is allocated to Use of English, which is assessed within the Reading component.

The grading scale for CPE is as follows:

• Grade A : 220-230
• Grade B : 213-219
• Grade C : 200-212

Individual Component Scoring: Each component of the CPE exam is scored independently, and the scores are then combined to calculate the overall result. Here is a breakdown of the individual component scoring:

• Reading : The Reading component contributes 20% to the overall score. It is scored based on your ability to understand and respond to a variety of written texts, demonstrating advanced reading comprehension skills.
• Writing : The Writing component also contributes 20% to the overall score. It assesses your ability to produce coherent, well-structured, and accurate written responses, showcasing advanced writing skills.
• Listening : The Listening component constitutes 20% of the overall score. It evaluates your ability to understand spoken English in various contexts, demonstrating advanced listening comprehension skills.
• Speaking : The Speaking component, like the others, accounts for 20% of the overall score. It assesses your ability to communicate effectively in spoken English, showcasing advanced speaking skills.
• Use of English : The Use of English component is assessed within the Reading component and contributes 20% to the overall score. It evaluates your ability to demonstrate accurate and appropriate use of vocabulary, grammar, and language structures.

Interpreting Scores and Proficiency Levels: The CPE scores correspond to specific proficiency levels, indicating the candidate’s ability to use English effectively in different contexts. Here is a breakdown of the proficiency levels associated with the CPE scores:

• Grade A (C2 Level) : This is the highest level of proficiency. Candidates who achieve a Grade A demonstrate near-native or native-like competence in English. They can understand complex written and spoken texts, communicate fluently and accurately, and use English confidently in various professional and academic settings.
• Grade B (C2 Level) : Candidates who achieve a Grade B demonstrate a high level of proficiency. They have a strong command of English and can understand and produce complex written and spoken texts with a high degree of accuracy and fluency. They can effectively communicate in most situations, although occasional errors may occur.
• Grade C (C1 Level) : Candidates who achieve a Grade C demonstrate a good level of proficiency. They can understand and produce a wide range of written and spoken texts, although with occasional errors. They can communicate effectively in everyday situations but may encounter difficulties with more complex or specialized language use.

It is important to note that achieving a CPE certificate at any grade indicates an advanced level of English proficiency, positioning you as a highly competent English speaker capable of functioning in demanding academic and professional environments.

Understanding the scoring system of the CPE exam allows you to evaluate your performance and set realistic goals for improvement. Each component is scored independently, contributing to the overall score, which is then mapped to specific proficiency levels. By familiarizing yourself with the scoring criteria, you can identify areas for improvement and work towards enhancing your English language skills at an advanced level.

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C2 proficiency, c2 proficiency, formerly known as cambridge english: proficiency (cpe), is one of our cambridge english qualifications . it is our highest-level qualification – proof that you are a highly competent speaker of english..

A C2 Proficiency qualification shows the world that you have mastered English to an exceptional level. It proves you can communicate with the fluency and sophistication of a highly competent English speaker.

Preparing for and passing the exam means you have the level of English that’s needed to study or work in a very senior professional or academic environment, for example on a postgraduate or PhD programme.

--> A C2 Proficiency qualification shows that you can: -->

• study demanding subjects at the highest level, including postgraduate and PhD programmes
• negotiate and persuade effectively at senior management level in international business settings
• understand the main ideas of complex pieces of writing
• talk about complex or sensitive issues, and deal confidently with difficult questions.

--> Reasons to choose C2 Proficiency: -->

• This is our highest-level exam. Passing it proves that you have mastered English to an exceptional level.
• Helps you to develop the English skills needed to succeed in very high level academic or professional environments.

C2 Proficiency helped me get into my dream drama school and gave me the confidence to perform in English in front of thousands of people Alberto Prandini Actor, director and C2 Proficiency certificate holder

Find your local centre to book your exam

Books for the Cambridge Proficiency Exam (CPE)

In case you didn’t already know, the CPE is the highest level of English certification recgonized worldwide and corresponds to level C2 on the European scale. You basically need to live, breath, and eat English 24 hours a day! You need to demonstrate that you’re completely at ease with the language, understand all expressions, idioms, pronunciations, and whatever else you can think of. You must have a really high level, almost like a native of London! It’s not impossible, but to reach such great heights, you’ll want to grab some books and prepare properly. Here’s a list of helpful study manuals:

1. Objective Proficiency with answers

This is a useful tool to help you with self-guided study. Well-organized and structured, it enables you to learn a lot in a short amount of time. Get  Objective Proficiency With Answers  complete with Audio CD, which also has a portion dedicated to advanced terminology.

2. Cambridge English Proficiency 1 for Updated Exam

This is one of the few textbooks that’s updated to the most recent version of the exam, from 2013. It contains tons of exercises and helpful explanations. It’s great to read to become familiar with the actual passages used on the exam and get a very realistic idea of how the exam’s timing is done. Purchase  Cambridge English Proficiency 1   even if you’re studying on your own.

3. Grammar and Vocaboulary for Cambridge advanced

This book contains lots of practice exercises to help you easily pass the CPE; it mainly deals with grammar so it’s not geared to help with listening. But vocabulary and grammar are discussed in exhaustive detail. Get  Grammar and Vocabulary for Cambridge advanced and proficiency  to get to the top. Specifically targeted to high schools.

4. Cambridge English Proficiency Masterclass

Here’s a comprehensive manual, complete with more than 150 exercises to test your grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, and much more; you can even practice online, record your voice and play it back to improve your pronunciation. Buy  Cambridge English Proficiency Masterclass   and join the ranks of those who have mastered the English language!

CPE Study Guide

Here are some materials to help students prepare for the Cambridge CPE exam.

Cambridge CPE Handbook

Download the latest version of the CPE handbook here:

Click to access 168194-cambridge-english-proficiency-teachers-handbook.pdf

It contains explanations of each part of the exam and practice tests with answers.

Quizlet sets:

Here are loads of different quizlet sets on different parts of the exam:

https://quizlet.com/592323310/flashcards – Key Word Transformations

http://quizlet.com/20934139/cpe-use-of-english-2-open-cloze-flash-cards/

http://quizlet.com/15560940/cae-cpe-inversion-transformations-flash-cards/

http://quizlet.com/56144162/cpe-describing-feelings-flash-cards/

http://quizlet.com/16987300/cae-cpe-use-of-english-practice-part-5-flash-cards/

http://quizlet.com/2150978/cpe-idioms-flash-cards/

Join this class for more:

http://quizlet.com/join/gkF6yKCg8

Recommended websites:

These websites have great materials for self-study:

http://www.flo-joe.com/cpe/students/

http://www.examenglish.com/cpe/ – old exam format but still useful.

http://www.cambridgeenglish.org/exams/proficiency/how-to-prepare/

Writing Handouts

Here are a selection of documents to help prepare students for the writing paper:

CPE Writing part 1 (2)

CAE CPE Writing part 2 plan handout

cae-writing-useful-language-1

CPE speaking writing phrases

CPE writing essay 2nd plan

CPE Writing Part 1 walkthrough

Letter of Complaint tim

Narrative Letter

Paragraph Structure

Writing Expressions

Here are links to various prezis on types of writing and grammar points:

Relative clauses: 

http://prezi.com/inqmfkuikbbt/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy

Inversion: 

http://prezi.com/wxy3-yvm3osw/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy

Inversion 2: 

http://prezi.com/mhabu89gv8-7/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy

Conditionals: 

http://prezi.com/r8peruvmq8nf/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy

Academic Writing: 

http://prezi.com/x1qhxvkwahez/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy

http://prezi.com/cc55ukdsa3rk/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy

Planning Writing:

http://prezi.com/vmxjibrjz3lt/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy

Narrative/Descriptive writing: 

http://prezi.com/zvhgk3raimei/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy

Letter of Complaint: 

http://prezi.com/dxsaxacxoquv/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy

Book review: 

http://prezi.com/tvjva9mynbsj/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy

http://prezi.com/faz_7zanfvvb/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy

http://prezi.com/nwmmfijnmrlv/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy&rc=ex0share

Letter of application: 

http://prezi.com/dmwaid3cj4ql/?utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=copy&rc=ex0share

Speaking Materials:

Agreeingand disagreeing

CPE Speaking part 1

CPE long turn examples

Speaking Long Turn (1)

CAE Speaking Part 2 speculation

CAE Speaking Part 2

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Author: Tim Warre

Barcelona based English Teacher, blogger and sometime actor and director. View All Posts

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You rock, man! Thank you so much for all of this, that’s going to be of a great help.

THANK YOU EVER SO MUCH! YOU ARE VERY GENEROUS!!

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These books are aimed at learners of the English language at CEFR level C2 preparing for the C2 Proficiency Cambridge English Qualifications (formerly known as Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE) ) examination or any other examinations at the same level of difficulty.

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Continuing Professional Education (CPE) for CPAs

Cpe courses & training.

Continuing Professional Education (CPE) products and training enable you to improve your skills and provide increased value to your clients and employers throughout your accounting career.  For CPAs on the go, AICPA offers over 350 cpe self-study courses covering topics in a broad range of areas.

Learn about CPE Credit Requirements .

CPExpress is a comprehensive, easy-to-use online learning resource, and a great way to earn CPE. Need to brush up on a particular subject? Looking for a brief overview? CPExpress has hundreds of hours of CPE in 1 - 2 credit courses. Get details .

Improve your skills and meet CPE requirements with hundreds of high-quality, self-paced courses from the AICPA.  Earn CPE in a variety of formats: self-study cpe courses, live webcasts and group study.

Professional Ethics: The American Institute of Public Accountants' Comprehensive Course

Annual federal tax update, u.s. gaap: review for business & industry, preparation, compilation and review staff essentials, subscriptions.

Available in a variety of subscription formats – online, webcasts, self-study and print – choose from a variety of year-round products featuring subject matter experts on essential topics.

Online subscription with unlimited access to 450+ CPE courses from AICPA experts on essential topics - offering flexibility for learning on your schedule.

MyCPE manager allows you to see CPE gaps and shortfalls by tracking and managing all your completed courses in one place.  Plan your continuing education needs and maintain CPE compliance.

This quarterly self-study CPE subscription combines articles from the Journal of Accountancy with course material, checklists and practice tools.

CPE courses by topic

Continuing Professional Education (CPE) course products and training on the hottest topics within the accounting profession.

Get needed accounting and assurance measurement criteria, guidance, tools and education.  Learn More →

Meet the challenges of performing quality audits in the unique and complex governmental auditing arena. Learn More →

Meet the challenges of performing quality audits in the unique and complex employee benefit plan area.  Learn More →

Share industry insights relating to financial reporting, assurance, tax compliance, and more related to the non profit sector.  Learn More →

CPA firms of all sizes gain support in the everyday intricacies of running a practice.   Learn More →

Support and guidance for practitioners who specialize in providing estate and tax planning services. Learn More →

Gain valuable insight and guidance about forensic accounting and business.  Learn More →

Providing you with the needed measurement criteria, guidance, tools, education and other support. Learn More →

CPE credits

CPE is required for CPAs to maintain their professional competence and provide quality professional services. CPAs are responsible for complying with all applicable CPE requirements, rules and regulations of state boards of accountancy, as well as those of membership associations and other professional organizations.

We are the American Institute of CPAs, the world’s largest member association representing the accounting profession. Our history of serving the public interest stretches back to 1887. Today, you'll find our 431,000+ members in 130 countries and territories, representing many areas of practice, including business and industry, public practice, government, education and consulting.

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15 Example Essay Topics (PDF) | C2 Proficient (CPE)

How much do I have to write? 240–280 words

How to write an essay C2 Proficient (CPE)?

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay: Topics

C2 proficient (cpe) essay topic 1.

Shifting sands: behavioural change.

Nowadays, in some cultures there may often be confusion between generations about what is acceptable behaviour in certain situations. Older people sometimes complain, for example, about the real or imagined rudeness of others, such as in the use of electronic devices in public places. However, the younger generation do not regard electronic communication as intrusive, but rather as fundamental to their way of life. Only increased mutual understanding is likely to resolve potential conflict or confusion in any society. In this case, as in all others, it pays to be aware of other people’s points of view.

Follow my leader? Should we always aim to do what society expects of us? No, what society needs is individuality. Worrying about what other people think inhibits enthusiasm and creativity. Nothing new is ever achieved by conforming to expected social norms. This is not only true for society’s innovators: everybody needs a strong sense of their own worth as an individual. This is essential for psychological well-being and the ability to function effectively in one’s personal and professional life. Paying too much attention to society’s conventions can be counter-productive in these and other ways.

Write your essay.

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay Topic 2

The Downside of Tourism Despite the importance of the tourism industry to local economies there are significant costs to being a popular holiday destination. Local cultures can suffer as the needs of the tourist are given priority. For example, local shops can be demolished to make way for larger retail developments. In addition, the negative effects on the environment are well documented. Areas suffering from scarce water, food and energy resources can see the situation deteriorate with the extra demand caused by an influx of tourists. There will often be a physical impact as well, with increases in local pollution or the effect on the eco-system of large-scale construction. More significantly, the generation of income for the local economy is often lower than envisaged. The majority of income can often go to multi-nationals such as airline companies and hotel chains.

Eco-Tourism Recent years have seen a growth in what is termed ‘eco-tourism’. The aim of eco-tourism is to unite conservation and communities through sustainable travel. So what are the key elements of eco-tourism? In addition to minimizing the impact of tourism on the environment, successful eco-tourism should also raise the awareness of cultural and environmental issues amongst the local host destination and the visiting tourist. Eco-tourism should be a positive experience for the local community as well as the tourist. Finally, eco-tourism should offer clear financial benefits to local people and to local conservation issues.

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay Topic 3

Raising the Bar or School Sports The National Sports Academy is running a series of workshops aimed at encouraging more teenagers to get involved in sport. The workshops are for teachers and will look at how to promote the numerous benefits of physical exercise and team sports to school pupils. ‘Exercise helps to maintain a stable weight, strengthen bones and reduces the risk of stress-related illnesses.’ explained Tim Collins, the Academy Director. ‘Aside from health benefits taking part in competitive sports gives teenagers a chance to experience the highs and lows of a competition, as well as instilling discipline, responsibility and commitment – all valuable life skills.’

Sport Seen as Uncool teenagers are spending less time on physical exercise because they find it deeply ‘uncool’, according to a survey of teachers and pupils. The problem is most prevalent amongst older teenagers. Girls are uncomfortable about sharing sports classes with boys and avoid swimming lessons because of a fear that it will spoil their hairstyles. And both sexes were scathing in the survey about the unfashionable PE uniform that had to be worn. The choice of sports available was also too limited. Teachers said they would like to see codes for sports kits relaxed, single sex physical education classes and a wider range of activities to combat the decline in activity.

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay Topic 4

Our Relationship with Food The British relationship with food has undergone a fundamental change over the past 50 years, and in quite a contradictory fashion. Meals were once made up of simple, local ingredients using recipes that had been followed by previous generations. Now food has become a sensory and cultural phenomenon. Food production and catering is a multi-million pound industry. Top chefs show us how to cook the most delicious 3-course meals and supermarkets provide all the ingredients we need. Yet at the same time, we are less willing to spend time cooking than was once the case and instead spend huge amounts on take-aways and ready-meals.

The Ready-Meal Industry Latest figures show that the UK ready-meal industry is experiencing continued growth despite the recent economic downturn. And the reason for this success? Time-poor consumers continue to want exotic, convenient, mealtime solutions whilst at the same time being cautious about over-spending on take-aways and trips to the restaurant. And the future looks even brighter for this industry with innovative and niche sectors opening up to cater for as wide a range of tastes as possible. And which meals are we eating? Italian remains the favourite cuisine closely followed by Indian and Chinese

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C2 proficient (cpe) essay topic 5.

Tackling Traffic Congestion Policy-makers employ a wide range of measures to tackle the problem of traffic congestion. Enforcement schemes such as setting strict speed limits on major roads and the use of congestion charges in city centres are two such examples as are vehicle exclusion zones or parking restrictions in busy pedestrian areas. However, it also makes sense to encourage motorists to become less reliant on their car. This can be achieved by making public transport more efficient and promoting the benefits of car-sharing with work colleagues, thus reducing weekly fuel bills. And the increasing number of cycle lanes on many roads is further evidence of how to win the hearts and minds of motorists in the fight against congestion.

The Joy of Motoring Recent research into the attitudes of motorists shows we are still more than happy to get behind the wheel. Despite rising fuel costs, insurance premiums and frequent traffic jams, 9 out of 10 of us still enjoy driving. Whether it’s visiting friends and relations, taking the family for a day out or even commuting to work, the car remains first choice for many people. Experts argue that unlike public transport, the car leaves us in charge of our own destiny, giving us the freedom to travel when and where we want. The car also gives us the opportunity to express ourselves. The kind of vehicle we drive tells the world something about who we are or what we aspire to be. Cars are not simply a means of transport but also something we wear.

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay Topic 6

The Financial Costs of Stress Research carried out by the Health and Safety Council estimates that stress and mental illness continues to be neglected by many businesses, both small and large. And the economic impact of this is huge, costing employers around £26bn a year. Stress at work can lead to a lack of concentration, fatigue and low motivation, all of which will cost the company in terms of low productivity, customer satisfaction and the very reputation of the company itself. Employers are being urged to become more “emotionally intelligent” and to improve the way they deal with stress and mental illness.

Speak up about Stress Many people find it difficult to talk about their feelings, particularly if we’re feeling weak or vulnerable. However, when suffering from stress it’s vital you seek help. It’s important to feel you can talk honestly with a close friend, a loved one, a work colleague or doctor about what’s going on. Stress is easily diagnosed and there is plenty you can do to successfully treat and manage stress. One of the most effective of these is to share your feelings with those you trust. Remember that accepting help and support is not a sign of weakness. Close relationships are vital to helping you get through this tough time.

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay Topic 7

THE EXCITEMENT OF ADVERTISING

Outdoor advertising, which is undergoing a transformation, has to attract, engage and persuade potential customers because it is the most important way of grabbing their attention. At the core of this transformation is digital screen media, which encompasses everything from giant screens to digital billboards. The technology is cheap and advertising agencies rave about the creative possibilities for advertisements that entertain, amuse, inform, make the environment brighter and enrich our world.

AN UNDESIRABLE BUSINESS

Advertising used to be straightforward. Posters were stuck up on anything from a bus shelter to a motorway hoarding, and many people considered this kind of advertising to be fairly dull, a harmless blot on the landscape and chose to ignore it. These people now regard digital advertising as a form of unwanted, creeping commercialisation which is attracting a buzz simply because it is new, and moreover, damages the environment and is completely unnecessary.

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay Topic 8

Does memory have a future? A good memory is invaluable. The inability to make use of memory and past experience can be a severe limitation on how well we perform both mentally and physically. Nowadays, we rely on computers, mobiles and other electronic devices to store our most important information, which can be recalled at the touch of a button. However, some people are concerned that this reliance on electronic equipment may affect the development of our internal memory system in the future. It remains to be seen whether these concerns turn out to be true.

The role of memory We like to think of our memory as our record of the past, but all too often memories are influenced by imagination. It is risky, therefore, to regard memory as a source of knowledge, because we will never be able to verify the accuracy of a memory fully. Although memory is an unreliable source of knowledge about the past, its importance in self-identity is unquestionable. When a person suffers memory loss as a result of accident or illness, one of the most distressing consequences is likely to be a loss of self. Indeed, it can be argued that a person’s true identity resides in his or her collection of memories.

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay Topic 9

Examinations are not fair. Making judgments about the ability of students based on examinations that take place just once or perhaps twice a year is simply not fair. So many students fail to show their true ability due to anxiety, stress and a number of other factors. Many students who do well in exams do so simply by cramming facts into their heads the week before the exam, to be forgotten by the following weekend. Surely assessment of the work done in class and at home throughout the school year would be a fairer system?

Classroom assessment is idealistic. It’s all very well to talk about teachers judging their students work in the classroom, and students working alone at home on their projects, but everyone knows that continuous assessment doesn’t work like that. Teachers are only human, and tend to be softer on their students than an examiner would be (or, in a worse scenario, harder on a student they don’t like). Parents or older siblingshelp students with the projects they have to do at home, even if it’s just coming up with ideas for them. Exams may not be fun, but at least we get to see what each individual student is capable of

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay Topic 10

Killing for nothing Under no circumstances should capital punishment be condoned. It is a barbaric form of punishment, which serves no useful purpose as it obviously does not act as a deterrent. In the USA, for example, the use of capital punishment increased greatly during the eighties and the nineties but with no corresponding effect on the crime rate. Another argument says that it effectively deals with people who are a danger to society. But in any case, they spend years, even decades, on death row while their appeals are used up, and might as well just be sentenced to life imprisonment with no possibility of parole.

Innocents die The system by which people are convicted is simply not as foolproof as some people would have us believe, and the odds against an innocent person being killled are just too high. While the risk of this happening remains a very real possibility, the death sentence is unacceptable. In this age of DNA evidence, many people in American prisons awaiting execution have been found to be innocent. The other problem is prejudice. Even if a person is found guilty and convicted of a crime, they are likely to get a worse sentence if they are from an ethnic minority, and  isproportionately large numbers of these people are executed every year in the States.

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay Topic 11

Censorship – a necessary evil We are constantly being exposed to dangerous opinions and need to be protected from these, just as we need to protect our children from bad influences on television. This is even  more important in the age of the internet, when anyone can write whatever they want and upload it on a webpage. The voices of those who speak out against the establishment should also be silenced as they aim to undermine the stability of the state. Free speech should only be granted to those prepared to use it responsibly.

Freedom of speech is a human right Free speech uses the word ‘free’ for a reason, and any limitation on it means censorship. Censorship infringes on our civil and human rights and cannot be allowed in any form in a democratic country. Many governments use censorship as a way of silencing their detractors, thus robbing the ordinary citizen of the right to be informed. Censorship begins with a few words here and there, and ends in newspapers being closed down and voices of protest imprisoned. Under no circumstances, therefore, can censorship be condoned.

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay Topic 12

Buy, buy, buy! The simple tragedy of waste is this: we are using up the earth’s irreplaceable natural resources, creating unnecessary products and packaging, in a mad rush for instantly gratifying consumption. Out-of-date mobile phones, sound systems, even cars are piling up in landfills all around the world. There was nothing wrong with the old model, except for its lack of flash,.Why can’t we choose a product that meets our needs and use it until it wears out? We have been conditioned to have needs that change as frequently as the seasons and satisfying these needs comes at a very high price, and not just the one on the price tag!

You can do something There are several simple ways in which you can act to halt the madness of needless consumption. As an individual, change our consumption habits to minimize your non-biodegradable waste and optimise your use of reusable packaging. This will require some sacrifices. As a member of a group, be active in drawing up a waste charter for your place of work or school. Educate others. As a consumer, punish companies that are wasteful and pollute by boycotting their products. This, above all, requires awareness, and the dedication to do your research.

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay Topic 13

Taking advantage of freedom

The freedom of the press is one of our most precious social principles, but this freedom is given to reporters and editors to allow them to report on matters of general public interest and concern and not as a means of generating newsprint by harassing ordinary citizens and celebrities. The intrusion of the press into people’s private lives in not legitimised by the fact that there are readers who want a certain kind of tabloid story, nor can it be justified by the simple argument that “the public has the right to know”. The modern press should not be allowed to generate stories by taking outrageous photographs and certainly cannot be trusted to write its own rule of conduct.

How free is free?

A great deal is said about free press and the freedom of speech. They are both cherished in our western value system. Yet just how free is the press? We may find out a lot of scandals about public figures, real and imaginary, but do we hear about what is really going on in the world? Do the people with the money, the really big fish, shake in their boots at the thought of their illicit business dealings being revealed? Not usually; after all, they own the press. It’s an important question to ask – who owns the press- because he is one who wields a great deal of power. We pity the citizens of backward countries that allow their rulers to own the press, but are we any better off really? Do we even know who is in control?

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay Topic 14

Paying for a Privilege Why couldn’t those who benefit from the better job prospects that studying at university gives them not be asked to pay for the service? People who get a higher education invariably get better paid jobs, so I don’t see why those who cannot or choose not to go to university should indirectly support those who do. A loan system whereby student loans would be gradually repaid after graduation not only seems a fairer system but might also encourage those that currently get to university not to take the opportunity for granted and make a bit more of their time there.

Who Should Pay for Valuable Skills

There are compelling reasons for offering free post-secondary education. Some of these reasons are ideological and spring from the concept that money should never be the deciding factor in a talented student’s decision to pursue a further education. It is to the advantage of the society as a whole if the brightest and best become highly educated specialists with valuable skills. Everyone benefits from a scientific advancement, an artistic masterpiece, or the steady hand of a surgeon. A side effect could be more selectivity in admissions to institutions of higher education, and a closer link between supply and demand for various skill in te society. But provided there is a fair evaluation system for the association of places, is this necessarily a bad thing?

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay Topic 15

Throwing things away

Every week many of us throw away a huge amount of stuff, ranging from packaging for food and plastic bottles to old newspapers and junk mail. Fortunately some, though not all, of this can be recycled successfully and both governments and private citizens seem to be doing their best to ensure that this happens nowadays. We should be careful not to congratulate ourselves too soon, however, because whether enough is being done is highly debatable. For example, the vast numbers of plastic bags used, many of which are not biodegradable, damage the environment, most notably the oceans, where they endanger marine life.

Communications technology

It seems that nowadays we keep electronic products such as mobile phones for only a short time, because we are bombarded with highly effective advertising that persuades us that we need to discard our present model in favour of the latest, improved device. Our willingness to discard such products may also be a consequence of the dizzying pace of technological change. We can hardly be expected to be content to remain behind the times, and we naturally wish to keep up with the latest exciting features and developments in communications technologies.

C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay: Topics (PDF)

Download C2 Proficient (CPE) Essay: Topics (PDF)

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CPE Workbook: Character, Plot, & Emotion Kindle Edition

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• Print length 74 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publication date April 25, 2024
• File size 1316 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CW3RD9RD
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Sharpened Pencils Productions LLC (April 25, 2024)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ April 25, 2024
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 1316 KB
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• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
• Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 74 pages

About the author

Diana stout.

An award-winning writer in multiple genres, Dr. Diana Stout is a screenwriter, author, blogger, and enjoys coaching other writers.

She travels with a crowd: characters who clamor for their stories to be told and those who reside on the other side of the veil.

When not writing, she enjoys jigsaw puzzles, reading, movies, nature, and manifesting.

Customer reviews

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To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

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