B2 COURSE

B2 COURSE
Unit 44 - Writing: Review
A REVIEW is usually written for an English-language magazine, newspaper or website. The main

purpose is to describe and express a personal opinion about something which the writer has
experienced (e.g. a film, a holiday, a product, a website etc.) and to give the reader a clear impression of
what the item discussed is like. Description and explanation are key functions for this task, and a
review will normally include a recommendation to the reader.
HINTS
It is a good idea to give your review an interesting title.
In the first paragraph, say what you are reviewing and try to get the reader’s interest.
Give your opinion of what you are reviewing linked to the question in the second paragraph.
Remember a review is not just a list of facts – it’s largely your opinion.
Give more details of what your are reviewing linked to the questions in the input in one or two more
paragraphs, but only focus on those you’ve been asked to develop.
Summarise your view, using different words from the introduction, and include a recommendation.
Remember:
Use a personal or more neutral style, according to the target reader.
It is important that you show a range of structures in the language of opinion, description
and recommendation.
Add vivid language to add interest.
44.1. - Useful language for a review
What I liked
What I liked most was …..

The thing I liked most was ….
I was pleasantly surprised by …..
….. would appeal to …..
If you get a chance to ….
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B2 COURSE
What I disliked
What I disliked most was …..
I was disappointed by/with ……
Reviews of books
main character
is set in
Fiction: science fiction / thriller / fantasy / mystery / historical / romance …
Non-fiction: cook book / travel book / textbook / manual / coffee-table book …
atmosphere / plot
author
written by
chapter
factual
unbelievable
bestseller
ending
Reviews of concerts
artist / band / musician / (bass/lead/rhythm) guitarist / (backing/lead) singer / drummer /
soloist / trio / orchestra
auditorium / hall / venue / lyrics / (catchy) tune / score / gig
Reviews of exhibitions
painting / sculpture / handicrafts
gallery / catalogue / display
Reviews of films
lead role
star role
star
star actor/actress
starring
secondary role
He plays a …….
written by ….
cast / director / producer
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B2 COURSE
is set in …..
based on a true story …..
believable
true to life
not very believable
far-fetched
(As for fiction books +): animation / adaptation / comedy
Costumes / design / photography / script / special effects / soundtrack
ending
Reviews of TV programmes
Chat shows / current affairs programme / debate / documentary / series / soap opera/
sitcom (situation comedy)
Host / presenter
Reviews of hotels, restaurants, etc

location
service
setting
attractive / disappointing setting
owned by
run by
head chef (restaurant)
waiters (restaurant)
staff …….
staff at reception …….(hotel)
hotel facilities ….
reasonable prices …..
good/excellent/poor value for money …..
(a bit/somehow) expensive
overpriced
not worth the money
always fully booked
book in advance
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B2 COURSE
Criticism
The script seemed rather conventional/predictable to me.

The plot struck me as completely bizarre/absurd/incomprehensible
The characters are appealing and true to life
The dancers were quite brilliant/amateurish
Recommendations
Judging from this CD / show …
Overall, if you like …, you’ll love / you should …
Although some of … he/she/it’s still a great…
You really must/should buy/see/read/visit …
I would definitely recommend seeing/visiting/reading/having a look at …
44.2. - Model question and answer
TASK
You have seen this announcement in your college English-language magazine:
Music reviews wanted
Have you been to a great music concert recently?

Write us a review of the concert, telling us about the band or singer and their performance. Say
whether you would recommend seeing them perform live.
We will publish the best reviews next month.
Write your review in 140-190 words in an appropriate style.
Model answer:
A gig to remember
Without doubt, the British rock band Arctic Monkeys have given this year’s best live show. As
teenagers a few years ago, they made the fastest selling album ever but seemed shy and awkward
on stage. Now they have matured and become an amazing live act.
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B2 COURSE
Since the frontman Alex decided to cut his hair and dress like a skinny rock star of the 1950s, he
moves confidently around the stage, waving his arms and encouraging us to shake our hips. The
crowd were ecstatic!
The set began with their hit, Do you wanna know. The guitar playing was tight, as always, and the
rhythm supported by Matt’s powerful drumming. The band were on top form throughout, winning
fans with a list that combined older with new hits.
My only reservation is that although the songs have clever lyrics and great melodies and sound
fresh every time, some lack the emotional and poetic force of their best.
But this is a minor criticism. Overall, it was a performance to remember and all fans should try and
catch them while they’re on tour.
[+/- 185 words]

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Unit 44 - Writing: Review

A REVIEW is usually written for an English-language magazine, newspaper or website. The main

44.1. - Useful language for a review

What I liked most was …..

Reviews of hotels, restaurants, etc

The script seemed rather conventional/predictable to me.

44.2. - Model question and answer

You have seen this announcement in your college English-language magazine:

Music reviews wanted

Have you been to a great music concert recently?

[+/- 185 words]

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