Take this fortnight reading and use of English quiz and boost your preparation for the Cambridge B2 First exam.
Roll up your sleeves and sharpen your wits!
Good luck!

Reading and Use of English, Part 1
Read the sentence. Decide which answer (A, B, C or D) best fits the gap.
I’ve been trying to _______up a new hobby, but I can’t seem to find anything that interests me.
A. pick
B. set
C. take
D. show
Reading and Use of English, Part 2
Read the sentence. Think of the word which best fits the gap. Use only one word.
After the long journey, they finally arrived at their destination, _____ they were greeted by a warm welcome from the locals.
Reading and Use of English, Part 3
Read the sentence below. Use the word given in capitals at the end of the line to form a word that fits in the gap.
The new employee’s _________ to the team has been very positive so far. ADAPT
Reading and Use of English, Part 4
Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between two and five words, including the word given.
My parents always tried to behave well in front of me when I was growing up.
EXAMPLE
My parents always tried to ………………………………………………………… when I was growing up.
Reading and Use of English, Part 5
Read the extract. Choose the answer (A, B, C or D) which you think fits best according to the text.
The article discusses the various benefits of meditation, such as reducing stress levels and improving sleep quality. However, some people may be deterred from meditating because they believe they are not good at it. It’s important to remember that meditation is a practice, not a performance. Just like any skill, it takes time and patience to improve.
What is the writer’s main message in this paragraph?
A. Meditation can only be practised by skilled individuals.
B. Meditation is not an effective way to reduce stress.
C. Meditation requires a lot of time and effort to master.
D. Meditation should be approached with patience and persistence.
Reading and Use of English, Part 6
Read the extract. One sentence has been removed from the text. Choose from the sentences (A-C) the one which fits the gap.
How to Train Your Brain to Think Like a Genius
Most people don’t realize that intelligence is not something that you are born with, it can be developed and trained like any other skill. With the right tools and strategies, you can boost your brainpower and begin thinking like a genius.
There are many exercises and activities you can do to help train your brain, such as puzzles and memory games, but one of the most effective methods is to simply read challenging material. By reading books and articles on complex topics, you will not only improve your knowledge and vocabulary, but also stimulate your brain to think in new and creative ways.
Another important strategy is to take breaks and get plenty of sleep. Research shows that the brain needs rest in order to function at its best.
♦ ?
A. This is why it’s important to take time to relax and recharge your brain on a regular basis.
B. It’s also important to challenge yourself in new and different ways to continue to develop your intelligence.
C. So, next time you are looking for a way to boost your brainpower, try picking up a challenging book or article to read.
Reading and Use of English, Part 7
You are going to read a magazine article about a new initiative in a city to reduce plastic waste.
In an effort to reduce plastic waste, the city of Greenville has launched a new initiative encouraging residents to switch to reusable bags, bottles, and containers. As part of the initiative, the city has also partnered with local businesses to offer discounts and incentives to customers who bring their own reusable items. In addition, the city will be distributing free reusable bags and water bottles to households throughout the community. The hope is that this initiative will reduce the amount of plastic waste in the city’s landfill and waterways, and promote a more sustainable way of living.
Which of the statements below (1-10) are mentioned in the article?
- Plastic waste is a major environmental concern around the world.
- The amount of plastic in the ocean is increasing at an alarming rate.
- The negative impact of plastic waste on the environment is well-known.
- Governments around the world have been slow to take action on plastic waste.
- Reusable bags, bottles, and containers are easy and effective ways to reduce plastic waste.
- The cost of producing disposable plastic items is relatively low.
- Plastic waste can be found in even the most remote areas of the planet.
- The use of plastic in packaging and products is a significant contributor to plastic waste.
- Consumer behaviour plays a key role in reducing plastic waste.
- Large corporations have the biggest impact on reducing plastic waste.

Check out our previous B2 First Reading and Use of English quizzes here:
- B2 First Reading and Use of English Quiz
- B2 First Reading and Use of English Quiz 2
- B2 First Reading and Use of English Quiz 3
- B2 First Reading and Use of English Quiz 4
- B2 First Reading and Use of English Quiz 5
Stay tuned for more words of advice and handy material!