How to Pass the Norskprøven B2 Writing Test: A Comprehensive Guide

The Norskprøven B2 writing test, also known as Delprøven i skriftlig framstilling, is a critical part of the exam designed to assess your ability to communicate effectively in written Norwegian. This section is divided into two main tasks, where you need to express your opinions and argue for your viewpoint on given topics. In this guide, we’ll break down the structure of the writing test, offer example topics (with some Norwegian examples), and provide practical tips to help you succeed.

Structure of the Norskprøven B2 Writing Test

The writing section for the B2 level consists of two tasks:

1. Task 1: Write a short email expressing your opinion on a given issue. You need to write 80 words or more.
2. Task 2: Write an argumentative essay based on one of two available topics. You can choose between 2A or 2B, and your response should be 250-350 words.

You have two hours to complete both tasks, so managing your time effectively is key.

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Task 1: Writing an Email (80 words or more)

In Task 1, you will write an email in response to a given situation. This is a shorter task, where you must express your opinion or explain an issue clearly and concisely. The task is typically related to everyday life situations, such as changes in local services or policies that affect the community.

Example Task 1:

A new parking fee has been introduced in your neighborhood, causing inconvenience to residents. Write an email to the city council explaining why this fee is problematic and suggest possible solutions.

In this example, you need to explain how the parking fee is affecting people in your area and provide suggestions, such as limiting the fee to non-residents or offering resident discounts.

Example email structure:

1. Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself and state why you are writing. For example: Jeg bor i dette området og vil uttrykke min bekymring over de nye parkeringsavgiftene som har blitt innført. (I live in this area and would like to express my concern about the new parking fees that have been introduced.)
2. Main Body: Explain the problem and how it impacts you and others. Dette skaper problemer for mange av oss som bor her, fordi vi nå må betale ekstra for å parkere utenfor våre egne hjem. (This is causing problems for many of us who live here, as we now have to pay extra to park outside our own homes.)
3. Conclusion: Politely ask for a solution or suggest one. Jeg foreslår at kommunen vurderer et rabattprogram for beboere, slik at vi kan unngå unødvendige kostnader. (I suggest that the city consider a discount program for residents so that we can avoid unnecessary costs.)

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Task 2: Argumentative Writing (250-350 words)

Task 2 is more in-depth and involves writing an argumentative essay. You will choose between two topics (2A or 2B), and your job is to take a clear stance on one issue, backing it up with logical reasoning and examples. This part evaluates your ability to present structured arguments and express complex ideas.

Example Task 2A: Should We Limit Screen Time for Children?

The debate over children’s use of technology is ongoing. Some argue that excessive screen time can lead to health and developmental issues, while others believe that technology is a necessary tool for learning and socialization in today’s world.

In this task, you need to argue whether screen time for children should be limited. You could discuss both the potential negative effects of too much screen time, such as decreased physical activity and social skills, and the benefits, such as educational resources and digital literacy.

Example structure for Task 2A:

1. Introduction: Introduce the topic and your position. For example: Det er mye debatt om barns skjermtid. Jeg mener at det er viktig å begrense skjermbruk for å beskytte barns helse og utvikling. (There is much debate about children’s screen time. I believe it is important to limit screen use to protect children’s health and development.)
2. Main Body:
   • Point 1: Discuss the health risks of too much screen time, such as manglende fysisk aktivitet (lack of physical activity) or søvnproblemer (sleep issues).
   • Point 2: Present the counterargument that technology is an important learning tool. For instance, Digitale verktøy kan hjelpe barn med å lære på en effektiv måte og forbedre deres teknologiforståelse. (Digital tools can help children learn effectively and improve their understanding of technology.)
   • Point 3: Offer a balanced solution, such as setting specific limits but ensuring children have access to educational content. Jeg foreslår at vi setter klare grenser for skjermtid, men fortsatt tillater bruk av pedagogiske apper og læringsverktøy. (I suggest we set clear limits on screen time but still allow the use of educational apps and learning tools.)
3. Conclusion: Summarize your argument and restate your position.

Example Task 2B: Should Homework Be Removed from Schools?

Homework is a common debate topic in education. Supporters believe that homework helps reinforce what students learn in class, while critics argue that it adds unnecessary stress and widens the gap between strong and struggling students.

In this task, you need to choose a side and justify your opinion with clear reasoning. Should homework be kept, removed, or perhaps reformed?

Example structure for Task 2B:

1. Introduction: State the issue and your opinion. Det er en pågående debatt om lekser skal fjernes fra skolen. Jeg mener at vi bør reformere leksesystemet, slik at alle elever får like muligheter til å lære. (There is an ongoing debate about whether homework should be removed from schools. I believe that we should reform the homework system to ensure all students have equal opportunities to learn.)
2. Main Body:
   • Point 1: Discuss the argument for removing homework, such as the pressure it puts on students and the impact on elever fra forskjellige sosioøkonomiske bakgrunner (students from different socioeconomic backgrounds).
   • Point 2: Present the counterargument that homework is essential for practice and helps students retain knowledge. Lekser kan bidra til å forsterke det som er lært i klasserommet, og gir elevene mulighet til å øve på egen hånd. (Homework can help reinforce what is learned in the classroom and give students the opportunity to practice independently.)
   • Point 3: Propose a compromise, such as offering homework support programs for struggling students. Skoler bør tilby leksehjelp for de som trenger det, slik at alle har samme sjanse til å lykkes. (Schools should offer homework support for those who need it, so that everyone has the same chance to succeed.)
3. Conclusion: Summarize your argument and reaffirm your stance.

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Practical Tips for the Norskprøven B2 Writing Test

1. Manage Your Time

You have two hours to complete both tasks. Here’s a suggested time breakdown:

• Task 1: Spend about 20-30 minutes on the short email.
• Task 2: Dedicate around 1 hour to writing and editing your essay.
• Use the remaining time to proofread both responses.

2. Understand the Question

Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the task. If you’re confused, ask the test supervisor for clarification. Misunderstanding the question could lead to writing off-topic, which can reduce your score.

3. Practice Writing on Common Topics

Typical topics for the B2 exam often focus on issues related to society, education, technology, and the environment. Practice writing essays on these themes, such as:

• Should social media use be limited for children?
• Should renewable energy be prioritized over traditional energy sources?
• Should schools prioritize academic subjects over physical education?

4. Organize Your Writing

For both tasks, a clear structure is essential. Make sure your essay has an introduction, body paragraphs with supporting points, and a conclusion. Avoid long, unorganized paragraphs.

5. Use a Range of Vocabulary and Grammar

Demonstrate your ability to use varied vocabulary and sentence structures:

• Avoid repeating basic words. Instead of writing bra (good) repeatedly, use words like positiv (positive), nyttig (useful), or fordelaktig (beneficial).
• Use complex sentence structures when possible. For example, use hvis (if), fordi (because), and som (which) to link ideas together.

6. Be Clear and Concise

While it’s important to use a range of language, don’t sacrifice clarity for complexity. Focus on getting your message across in a clear and grammatically correct way.

7. Proofread Your Work

Before submitting your test, make sure to check for:

• Grammar mistakes: Pay attention to subject-verb agreement and verb tenses.
• Spelling: Correct any typos or misspelled words.
• Punctuation: Ensure proper punctuation to improve readability.
• Word count: Verify that you meet the minimum word count for both tasks (80 words for Task 1, 250-350 words for Task 2).

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Conclusion

The Norskprøven B2 writing test is a challenging but manageable part of the exam if you are well-prepared. By practicing writing on common topics, organizing your responses clearly, and using a wide range of vocabulary and grammar, you can significantly improve your chances of passing.

For more personalized support and targeted exercises, you can enroll in the Norskprøven preparation course at NLS Norwegian Language School. Sign up here: https://nlsnorwegian.no/norskproven-course/.