The Problem of Plastic Pollution B2 Writing Practice Tests

Exercises: 1 2 3 4 5

Exercise 1

Read the sentences below. Choose the one sentence that is correctly punctuated, capitalized, and spelled. The other sentences contain one or more errors in punctuation, capitalization, or spelling.

Topic: Each question focuses on a sentence related to plastic pollution.
Example question: Which sentence is correct?
a) plastic pollution is one of the most serious enviromental problems of our time.
b) Plastic pollution is one of the most serious environmental problems of our time.
c) Plastic Pollution is one of the most serious environmental problems, of our time.
Answer: b) Plastic pollution is one of the most serious environmental problems of our time.

1. You are writing a formal essay about plastic pollution. Which sentence is written in the most appropriate register?

Plastic pollution is really bad and we've got to do something about it ASAP.

It is widely acknowledged that plastic pollution poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems.

Everyone knows plastic is a massive problem, don't they?

Plastic pollution isn't something we can just ignore anymore, to be honest.

2. Choose the correctly punctuated sentence to use as a discourse marker in a formal essay about plastic pollution.

Furthermore plastic waste continues to accumulate in the world's oceans at an alarming rate.

Furthermore, plastic waste continues to accumulate in the world's oceans at an alarming rate.

Furthermore plastic waste, continues to accumulate in the world's oceans at an alarming rate.

Furthermore; plastic waste continues to accumulate in the world's oceans at an alarming rate.

3. Which sentence contains a comma splice error?

Plastic bags are harmful to wildlife; consequently, many governments have banned them.

Plastic bags are harmful to wildlife, consequently many governments have banned them.

Plastic bags are harmful to wildlife. Consequently, many governments have banned them.

Because plastic bags are harmful to wildlife, many governments have banned them.

4. Select the correct sentence using 'despite' in a formal essay about plastic pollution.

Despite of increasing public awareness, plastic consumption has not decreased significantly.

Despite the fact of increasing public awareness, plastic consumption has not decreased significantly.

Despite increasing public awareness, plastic consumption has not decreased significantly.

Despite that public awareness has increased, plastic consumption has not decreased significantly.

5. Which sentence correctly uses 'in spite of' in a report about plastic pollution solutions?

In spite of the government introduced new recycling laws, pollution levels remain high.

In spite of introducing new recycling laws, the government has failed to reduce pollution levels significantly.

In spite that the government introduced new recycling laws, pollution levels remain high.

In spite the new recycling laws, pollution levels remain high.

6. You are writing a for-and-against essay on banning single-use plastics. Which sentence best introduces the opposing viewpoint?

On the other hand, some people reckon a ban would totally mess up the economy.

On the other hand, critics argue that an outright ban could have considerable economic repercussions for manufacturers.

But then again, a ban could hurt businesses, couldn't it?

On the other hand some people think it's bad for business so maybe we shouldn't ban it.

7. Which sentence uses correct inversion after a negative adverb, suitable for a B2 formal essay?

Seldom we have witnessed such a rapid deterioration of marine environments due to plastic waste.

Seldom have we witnessed such a rapid deterioration of marine environments due to plastic waste.

Seldom we witnessed such a rapid deterioration of marine environments due to plastic waste.

Seldom did we have witnessed such a rapid deterioration of marine environments due to plastic waste.

8. Which concluding sentence is most appropriate for a B2 formal opinion essay about plastic pollution?

So basically, we need to stop using plastic and that's that.

In conclusion, I think plastic is bad and we should do more about it.

Taking all factors into consideration, it is evident that concerted global action is required to mitigate the devastating effects of plastic pollution.

To wrap things up, plastic pollution is a huge deal and everyone needs to get involved.

9. You are writing a formal report on plastic pollution for a local council. Which sentence is written in the most appropriate style for a report?

I think we should tell businesses to use less plastic packaging because it's causing loads of damage.

It is recommended that local businesses be required to reduce plastic packaging in order to minimise environmental damage.

We've got to make businesses use less plastic or things are going to get much worse.

Businesses should really try harder to cut down on plastic packaging, don't you think?

10. Identify the sentence that contains a register inconsistency error in a formal essay about plastic pollution.

It has been demonstrated that single-use plastics contribute significantly to environmental degradation.

Governments must investigate effective strategies to reduce plastic waste in coastal regions.

Moreover, the plastic crisis is something we totally can't put up with any longer.

Consequently, stricter legislation regarding plastic manufacturing is considered essential by many policymakers.

Exercises: 1 2 3 4 5

The Problem of Plastic Pollution B2 Infographic

How to Write an Opinion Essay: The Problem of Plastic Pollution

An opinion essay is one of the most common writing tasks in the Cambridge B2 First (FCE) examination. In this type of essay, you are required to state your opinion clearly, support it with well-developed arguments and relevant examples, acknowledge a contrasting viewpoint, and reach a balanced conclusion. Opinion essays appear frequently in academic writing, journalism, and professional reports on global issues such as climate change, education, and — as in today's lesson — plastic pollution.

Real-life examples of opinion essays include newspaper editorials arguing for stricter environmental laws, student essays on sustainability, and professional policy documents submitted to government bodies. Mastering this genre will help you to express complex ideas clearly, logically, and persuasively in both examinations and everyday academic life.

Essential Writing Rules and Sentence Structure

1. Write a Clear Thesis Statement

Your introduction must contain a thesis statement — one sentence that states your overall opinion or position on the topic. This sentence tells the reader exactly what your essay will argue.

Example: "It is my firm conviction that urgent legislative action is required to address the growing threat of plastic pollution."

2. Use Topic Sentences to Begin Each Paragraph

Every body paragraph must begin with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of that paragraph. This creates logical structure and helps the reader follow your argument.

Example: "One of the most significant consequences of plastic pollution is the devastating impact it has on marine ecosystems."

3. Develop Your Arguments with Evidence and Examples

Do not simply state an opinion — support it. At B2 level, you are expected to expand each argument with a reason, a consequence, or a specific example.

Example: "According to recent studies, over eight million tonnes of plastic enter the world's oceans each year, causing the deaths of countless marine animals."

4. Acknowledge the Counter-Argument

A strong opinion essay recognises the opposing point of view before dismissing or qualifying it. Use concession clauses to introduce the counter-argument.

Example: "While it is true that the plastics industry provides employment for millions of people worldwide, this does not justify the irreparable damage caused to natural environments."

5. Use the Passive Voice for Formal, Impersonal Tone

Formal essays require an impersonal, objective register. Use passive structures to achieve this tone and avoid overly personal language.

"It is widely acknowledged that plastic waste poses a serious threat to biodiversity."
"Significant quantities of microplastics have been detected in drinking water supplies across the world."

6. Punctuate Discourse Markers Correctly

When a sentence adverb or discourse marker begins a sentence, it must be followed by a comma. This is one of the most frequently tested rules at B2 level.

Furthermore, governments must invest in sustainable alternatives.
Nevertheless, individual action alone is insufficient to solve this crisis.
Consequently, entire ecosystems are under serious threat.

7. Maintain Consistent Register — Never Mix Formal and Informal

Avoid contractions (don't, can't, it's), colloquial expressions (loads of, a big deal, look into), and casual phrasing. Use formal equivalents throughout.

❌ look into → ✅ investigate
❌ loads of plastic rubbish → ✅ considerable quantities of plastic waste
❌ It's a really big problem → ✅ It represents a serious and wide-ranging problem

Useful Linking Words (Connectors)

At B2 level, you are expected to use a range of sophisticated connectors to link ideas, contrast arguments, and guide the reader through your essay. Study the table below carefully.

Connector	Function / Use	Example Sentence
Furthermore	Adding a stronger or additional point	Furthermore, single-use plastics account for the majority of ocean waste.
Moreover	Adding an equally important point	Moreover, microplastics have been discovered in the human food chain.
In addition to this	Adding a supplementary argument	In addition to this, biodegradable packaging is now widely available.
Nevertheless	Introducing a concession or contrast	Nevertheless, voluntary measures have proven largely ineffective.
Nonetheless	Showing contrast despite a previous point	Nonetheless, consumer habits remain one of the key drivers of pollution.
Whereas	Contrasting two different facts or situations	Whereas developed nations can fund recycling infrastructure, poorer countries often cannot.
While it is true that	Acknowledging a counter-argument before refuting it	While it is true that recycling reduces waste, it cannot replace prevention.
Despite the fact that	Expressing contrast or concession	Despite the fact that awareness has grown, plastic production continues to rise.
In spite of	Expressing contrast (followed by a noun/gerund)	In spite of government warnings, plastic consumption remains alarmingly high.
Consequently	Showing a result or consequence	Consequently, many species of marine life now face the threat of extinction.
As a consequence	Expressing a result (more formal variation)	As a consequence, coastal communities are suffering severe economic losses.
For this reason	Explaining a cause-and-effect relationship	For this reason, a global ban on single-use plastics is urgently required.
On the one hand ... on the other hand	Balancing two contrasting perspectives	On the one hand, plastic is affordable; on the other hand, its environmental cost is enormous.
Taking all factors into consideration	Introducing a balanced conclusion	Taking all factors into consideration, stricter regulation is clearly necessary.
On balance	Summarising after considering both sides	On balance, the environmental damage caused by plastic far outweighs its economic benefits.

Model Writing Sample: The Problem of Plastic Pollution

Read the following B2-level model essay carefully. Notice how it is structured, how connectors are used, and how the formal register is maintained throughout.

Essay Prompt: "Plastic pollution is one of the most serious environmental problems facing the world today. Do you agree? Write an opinion essay giving your views."

[Introduction — Hook and Thesis Statement]
It is widely acknowledged that plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental challenges of the twenty-first century. Given the scale of the damage already inflicted upon ecosystems around the world, I firmly believe that immediate and coordinated global action is essential.

[Body Paragraph 1 — First Argument with Evidence]
One of the most alarming consequences of plastic pollution is the destruction of marine environments. Over eight million tonnes of plastic waste enter the world's oceans annually, causing the deaths of seabirds, fish, and marine mammals who mistake it for food. Furthermore, microplastics have now been detected in drinking water and even in the human bloodstream, suggesting that this is no longer merely an environmental issue, but a public health crisis as well.

[Body Paragraph 2 — Counter-Argument and Refutation]
While it is true that the plastics industry contributes significantly to national economies and provides employment for millions, this does not justify the irreversible harm being caused to natural habitats. Sustainable alternatives, such as biodegradable packaging, are already commercially available. Consequently, the economic argument against reform is becoming increasingly difficult to defend.

[Conclusion — Balanced Verdict]
On balance, the long-term environmental and health risks associated with plastic pollution far outweigh any short-term economic advantages. Taking all factors into consideration, governments, businesses, and individuals must work together to drastically reduce plastic consumption before the damage becomes permanent.

Word count: 185 words

Annotation Summary:

Introduction: Opens with a passive structure ("It is widely acknowledged...") and a clear thesis statement expressing a firm opinion.
Body Paragraph 1: Topic sentence → specific evidence and statistics → consequence extended with furthermore.
Body Paragraph 2: Counter-argument introduced with "While it is true that..." → immediately qualified and refuted using consequently.
Conclusion: Opens with "On balance" → summarises the essay's position → closes with a forward-looking recommendation.
Register: Fully formal throughout — no contractions, no phrasal verbs, no colloquial language.

Key Phrases and Sentence Starters

Introducing Your Opinion and Thesis

It is my firm conviction that ...
It is widely acknowledged that ...
There is little doubt that ...
It is my considered view that ...
This essay will argue that ...

Presenting Arguments and Evidence

One of the most significant consequences of this issue is ...
Research has demonstrated that ...
It has been reported that ...
A further argument in favour of this view is ...
Studies have shown that ...
This is clearly illustrated by ...

Contrasting and Conceding Points

While it is true that ..., this does not justify ...
Despite the fact that ..., the evidence suggests ...
In spite of growing awareness, ...
Whereas some argue that ..., it is equally important to consider ...
Although there are economic benefits, ...
Nevertheless, it must be acknowledged that ...

Concluding and Making Recommendations

On balance, it is clear that ...
Taking all factors into consideration, ...
In conclusion, it is evident that ...
To summarise, the weight of evidence suggests that ...
It is therefore strongly recommended that ...
Unless urgent action is taken, ...

Common Writing Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1 — Comma Splice (Joining Two Independent Clauses with Only a Comma)

❌ Plastic pollution is a serious problem, governments must introduce stricter laws immediately.
✅ Plastic pollution is a serious problem. Consequently, governments must introduce stricter laws immediately.
Explanation: Two independent clauses cannot be joined by a comma alone. Use a full stop and a discourse marker, or use a conjunction such as "therefore" or "and".

Mistake 2 — Missing Comma After a Sentence Adverb

❌ Furthermore governments must fund research into sustainable materials.
✅ Furthermore, governments must fund research into sustainable materials.
Explanation: When a discourse marker or sentence adverb (Furthermore, Nevertheless, Consequently, However) opens a sentence, it must always be followed by a comma.

Mistake 3 — Confusing "Despite" and "In Spite Of" with "Despite Of"

❌ Despite of the new regulations, plastic production has continued to increase.
✅ Despite the new regulations, plastic production has continued to increase.
Explanation: "Despite" is never followed by "of". Use either "Despite + noun/gerund" or "In spite of + noun/gerund". The form "despite of" does not exist in standard English.

Mistake 4 — Using an Informal or Inconsistent Register in a Formal Essay

❌ Plastic pollution is a really big deal and we've got to do something about it soon.
✅ Plastic pollution represents an increasingly serious problem that requires immediate and decisive action.
Explanation: Contractions (we've), colloquial expressions (a big deal, do something about it), and intensifiers like "really" are entirely inappropriate in a formal opinion essay. Always use formal vocabulary and full verb forms.

Mistake 5 — Inversion After Negative Adverbials (Advanced B2 Error)

❌ Not only plastic pollution damages ecosystems, but it also harms human health.
✅ Not only does plastic pollution damage ecosystems, but it also harms human health.
Explanation: When a sentence begins with a negative adverbial such as "Not only", "Seldom", or "Never", the auxiliary verb must be inverted before the subject. This is a key B2 grammar feature that impresses examiners when used accurately.

Writing Checklist and Practice Task

B2 Opinion Essay Writing Checklist

Before you submit or finalise your essay, work through this checklist carefully:

✅ Introduction: Have I included a clear thesis statement that states my overall opinion?
✅ Topic Sentences: Does each body paragraph begin with a clear topic sentence?
✅ Development: Have I supported each argument with a reason, evidence, or specific example?
✅ Counter-Argument: Have I acknowledged and then refuted the opposing viewpoint?
✅ Connectors: Have I used a range of B2-level discourse markers (Furthermore, Nevertheless, Whereas, Consequently) correctly?
✅ Comma after discourse markers: Have I placed a comma after every sentence-opening discourse marker?
✅ Passive Structures: Have I used passive voice to create an impersonal, formal tone where appropriate?
✅ Register: Is my essay fully formal — no contractions, no colloquial expressions, no phrasal verbs?
✅ "Despite" / "In spite of": Have I used these correctly — never "despite of"?
✅ Conclusion: Have I reached a balanced, well-reasoned concluding verdict using an appropriate phrase?
✅ Word Count: Is my essay between 140 and 190 words?

Practice Writing Task

Now write your own opinion essay in response to the following prompt. Aim for 140–190 words and apply all the rules, structures, and connectors from this lesson.

Writing Prompt:

"Individuals, not governments, are primarily responsible for solving the problem of plastic pollution. Do you agree with this statement? Write an opinion essay giving your views, supporting your arguments with reasons and examples."

Planning tips before you write:

Decide your overall opinion: Do you agree, disagree, or partially agree?
Plan two body paragraphs — one for your main argument and one addressing the counter-argument.
Choose three or four connectors from the table above and use them in your essay.
Begin your conclusion with "On balance" or "Taking all factors into consideration".
Proofread carefully using the checklist above before finishing.

Now test your writing mechanics and sentence skills in the exercises below.

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