C2 Proficiency Part 2 · 280–320 words · a clear voice, a sustained argument, a memorable ending
Building on C1
From engaging to authoritative
At C2–C1 you learned titles, hooks, direct questions to the reader and a lively style. At C2 the examiner looks for a consistent voice, an argument that develops, and control of rhetorical effect — all in 280–320 words.
Voice and stance
The reader should know where you stand, and why
It is tempting to blame social media for everything. The truth, I suspect, is less comfortable.
A clear position, signalled early, with nuance.
distance
It could be argued… · Some would claim…
commitment
What is beyond doubt is… · Make no mistake:…
Rhetorical devices
Used sparingly, for effect
rule of three
It is cheap, it is quick and it is everywhere.
contrast
We have never been more connected — or more alone.
rhetorical question
Who, after all, reads the terms and conditions?
One or two per article. More sounds like a speech.
Cohesion across paragraphs
Each paragraph should lead to the next
…and that is precisely the problem. This problem, however, is not new.
Pick up the last idea at the start of the next paragraph.
If convenience is the attraction, cost is the hidden price.
A topic sentence that links two ideas.
Endings
Leave the reader thinking
return to the opening
So, should we blame our phones? Perhaps we should look up from them first.
a wider point
The question is not whether we can switch off, but whether we still want to.
No "In conclusion" — that belongs in an essay.
Common mistakes
Where learners go wrong most often
In conclusion, social media has advantages and disadvantages.
→
So, should we blame our phones? Perhaps we should look up from them first.
an article ends with impact, not a summary
Isn't it amazing? Don't you agree? Have you ever wondered?
→
One well-placed rhetorical question.
too many devices
I think… I think… I believe…
→
It is tempting to… / What is beyond doubt is…
vary how you show stance
New paragraph with no link to the last.
→
Pick up the last idea: This problem, however,…
cohesion between paragraphs
Your turn
Answer out loud — full sentences
Plan a 300-word article: "Has technology made us lazy?"
1
Write an opening of two sentences that shows your stance.
2
Write one sentence using the rule of three, and one using contrast.
3
Write the first sentence of paragraph 3 so it picks up paragraph 2.
4
Write a closing sentence that returns to your opening.