B1 Preliminary for Schools preparation

The B1 Preliminary for Schools handbook gives an overview of the exam and its place within Cambridge English examinations. This is followed by a focus on each paper and includes content, advice on preparation and example papers.

B1 Preliminary for Schools handbook

This list gives teachers a guide to the vocabulary needed when preparing students for B1 Preliminary for Schools.

B1 Preliminary for Schools vocabulary list

Free: Paper-based sample test

Sample papers for B1 Preliminary for Schools

Free: Computer-based sample tests

Watch this tutorial before you start to help you understand what you need to do.

Check your answers as you do the test. Once the test has finished you will not be able to check them.

Reading sample test

Writing sample test

Listening sample test

Use the answer keys below

Reading and Writing answer key

Listening answer key

Running a mock test gives your learners a true exam day experience, helps you understand their progress and decide if they are ready for their exam. Our interactive mock test toolkits are full of tips, strategies and materials to help you ensure your students are confident and fully prepared for their exam.

Mock test toolkit for older learners

The Cambridge English Scale is used to report results for our qualifications and tests. The scores provide a detailed understanding of the candidate’s level. They are also consistent across the different exams, making it easy to compare results and understand progress from one level to the next.

For guidance on converting practice test scores to Cambridge English Scale scores, download our guide for teachers. 

Converting practice test scores to Cambridge English Scale scores

Your Statement of Results contains the following information:

• score on the Cambridge English Scale for each of the four skills (reading, writing, listening and speaking)
• score on the Cambridge English Scale for the overall exam
• grade (A, B, C, Level A2) for the overall exam
• CEFR level for the overall exam.

Find out how to understand your Statement of Results

Download a sample Statement of Results for B1 Preliminary for Schools

Our lesson plans include everything you need to deliver a 45-minute lesson in the classroom or online, including activity sheets, homework, and more.

B1 Preliminary for Schools lesson plans

Developing listening skills for Cambridge English Qualifications: A guide for teachers

Developing reading skills for Cambridge English Qualifications: A guide for teachers

Assessing writing for Cambridge English Qualifications: A guide for teachers

Download posters and classroom activities

This booklet contains 10 motivating and communicative classroom activities to encourage learners to practise the vocabulary they will need to succeed in the B1 Preliminary for Schools examination.

Use this booklet if you’re preparing students for this exam or if you’re teaching an A2/B1 general English class and are looking for new ideas!

B1 Preliminary for Schools vocabulary booklet

Classroom warmers activity booklet

This booklet includes seven exercises each for primary, lower secondary, and upper secondary students.

Supporting learners with dyslexia: A guide for teachers

Many teachers have learners with dyslexia in their exam preparation classes. This guide is for you. With lots of practical tips and ideas for lesson plans, it will help you prepare materials to support learners with dyslexia in preparation for our qualifications.

Cambridge English webinars and Facebook Live sessions are a great way for teachers to stay up to date with the latest developments and to interact with our experts.

Our webinars provide you with invaluable information about our exams, and cover a wide spectrum of subjects, including effective teaching methods, tips to improve student engagement and online professional development to help you develop your career.

Webinars for teachers

You can connect with a lively community of teachers on our Teaching English with Cambridge Facebook page. We regularly post teaching tips, answer your questions, and host regular Live events to give you a chance to engage with the community.

We have 48 free English learning activities to help you prepare for your B1 Preliminary for Schools exam.

Find out more

Download our guide to the exam, with advice on preparing for the exam, tips for exam day and useful links.

B1 Preliminary for Schools: Information for candidates

Practice your reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills using these free resources.

Listening Self-study plan

Reading Self-study plan

Speaking Self-study plan

Writing Self-study plan

Facebook

Join our lively Facebook community and take part in quizzes, talk to other English language learners and learn on-the-go.

YouTube

Subscribe to our Learn English with Cambridge YouTube channel to get helpful tips for exam preparation, and lots of English language advice.