PS test IM II / B2.

2 English

In order to pass Modern Language II / B2.2 you have to:

● complete all the CA activities and obtain a Final CA mark of C+ or above.

● sit a PS test. This test will take place online.

You can only take the PS if you have got a Final CA mark of C+, B or A.

A Final CA mark of C- or D (under 5) means you cannot take the PS and unfortunately you have
failed the course.

FAQs

What percentage of the course mark is the PS worth?

30% of the IM II course mark is from the PS.
70% of the IM II course mark is your Final CA mark.

What do I have to do in the PS?

You have to write one essay of 200-250 words on a topic of general interest.

Here is an example question:

Read the following essay question.

“It is useful to have access to news at any time, day or night.” Discuss. In your answer, you
should include at least three examples from your personal experience.

Write an essay of 200-250 words. Remember to include an introduction, main body, and
conclusion.

Please note that essays that do not sufficiently address the question will automatically
result in a mark of "0".

How long is the PS?

One hour. You should aim to write for about 45 minutes and leave about 15 minutes for
preparing your writing and reviewing your work.

Can I use a dictionary?

No, you cannot use a dictionary or any other resources in the PS test.
PS test IM II / B2.2 English

How will the PS be marked?

The PS will be marked using the same criteria as the writing you have done for CA. It is expected
that your writing under exam conditions will not be the same standard as during the term, but it
should be similar. If there is a significant discrepancy between the level of writing in the PS and
the writing work you submitted for CA, you will be given 0 for the PS and fail the course overall.
See the Course Plan for more details.

Will I fail if I don’t answer the question properly?

Yes, the Course Plan says that if students do not sufficiently address the question in the PS, the
mark will be 0 for the PS.

Our general advice is to avoid stating the obvious and using too general statements.
A paragraph like the one below may mean your composition will be given a 0 because it does
not address the topic directly and could be applied to any exam question:

“I really like this topic and I want to talk about it. It is very interesting and many people
have different opinions about it. Some opinions are in favour of it and others against…”

How can I prepare for the PS?

● Look at the writing tasks in the self-study resources and writing tasks you’ve done over
the course and plan outlines of responses you could make.
● Practise writing 200-250 words under timed conditions.
● Review any areas that you found especially difficult. That way you will feel more
confident and relaxed during the test.
● Review the comments your teacher gave you on your writing, Error Correction exercises,
and Writing Tutorials so that you can avoid these mistakes in your writing.

And don’t worry! The important thing is to write just as you have been doing throughout the
course.