B1 English courses: when to enrol and what to expect

by Amelia

Learning English is a passport to new opportunities and reaching a B1 level in English is a big milestone. It means you can use English in everyday situations, from chatting with friends to watching films and finally understanding the dialogues!

What is a B1 English course?

A B1 course is the bridge between basic English and an intermediate use of the language. Your learning goes beyond simple words and phrases, and focuses on expressing opinions, understanding key topics of conversations and communicating independently in real-world scenarios such as at school, when travelling or at work. Cool right?

Who can join a B1 English course?

Cambridge English offers two versions of the B1 exam: B1 Preliminary for adult learners and B1 Preliminary for Schools for students in secondary school. Both examine the same level of English at a regulated CEFR standard but they focus on different topics and content for adults and teens.

Therefore, Globally Speaking offers separate adult courses and teen courses to prepare for the Cambridge B1 Exam.

If you or your child can understand short conversations and simple grammar, this could be a great level to step up to.

What is covered in a B1 English course?

The course covers all key aspects of the exam: Speaking, Listening, Reading, and Writing. Students will expand their vocabulary, strengthen their grammar and practice real-life conversations through methods that feel natural and practical. We also include cultural elements for students, to understand aspects of the English-speaking world they may not have experienced before. It is even more fun than it sounds!

What to expect in a B1 English course

At Globally Speaking, our teachers create a friendly environment where mistakes are a part of learning and improving. Lessons are interactive with group activities and language games to solidify the new language learnt throughout the course. Step by step, your confidence will build together with your knowledge and ability to communicate your ideas and interact with others.

Why choose a B1 Course?

A preparation course like the one we offer at Globally Speaking will give you the structure, practice and support required to confidently use your English skills in an exam. Learning strategies is a key part of succeeding in any exam and our experienced teachers will guide you through various exam-style activities, based on the real ones. By reaching the B1 level you have the opportunity to continue on to the B2 First and C1 Advanced, which are crucial assets to have when travelling and also applying for universities or jobs.

How many lessons should you do before the B1 exam?

In line with Cambridge, we recommend 120 hours of preparation between CEFR levels, for example from A2 to B1. At Globally Speaking we recommend students take a preparatory language course (Teen 3 or Adult 3) before starting an exam preparation course (Teen 4 and Adult 4). Both of these courses are made up of 60 hours and therefore equal the recommended 120 hours of preparation for taking the B1 exam. However, students may have the skills needed to start directly with a B1 level course and complete the preparation in 60 hours, or one school year.