TEF Expression Écrite Section B: The 5-Paragraph "Convincing" Structure

Introduction: The Logic of Persuasion

In the Section B of TEF Writing, you are not just writing an essay; you are fighting a battle for a specific point of view. You are usually responding to a controversial prompt (e.g., "Should remote work be mandatory?" or "Do we need more taxes on sugar?").

To score an NCLC 9 or 10 (CLB 9/10), your examiner needs to see logical structure, varied connectors, and high-level vocabulary. This is where the 5-Paragraph "Convincing" Structure comes in.

In this 2000-word guide, we’ll show you exactly how to build this structure, provide a "golden" template, and show you how to use to automate your mastery.

Section 1: The Anatomy of a High-Scoring Essay

The 5-paragraph structure is the "industry standard" for academic French (Dissertation). It consists of:

1. Introduction: Catchy opening, context, and your thesis.
2. Argument 1: Your strongest point.
3. Argument 2: A supporting but distinct point.
4. Argument 3: A counter-argument that you immediately debunk (The Concession).
5. Conclusion: Summary and a "final thought" (ouverture).

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Section 2: The "Golden" Template for 2025

The Introduction (L'Introduction)

• Hook: Start with a broad statement. À l'ère de la mondialisation...

Section 3: The Vocabulary of Argumentation

To reach CLB 9+, you must stop using "basic" words. Replace them with these:

Section 4: The Strategic Choice of Arguments

On the TEF, you have 60 minutes for both Task A and Task B. You must spend no more than 40 minutes on Task B.

Pro-Tip: Don't search for "perfect" arguments. Search for arguments that allow you to use Subjunctive and Conditionnal.

Section 5: How PrepMyFrench Automates Your Writing

At prepmyfrench.com, we have an AI Ethics & Writing Grader.

Real-time Scoring

When you write your Section B essay on our simulator, our AI analyzes your text according to the official TEF grid. It checks:

Conclusion: From Good to Great

Scoring NCLC 10 is about discipline. Stick to the 5-paragraph structure, use the connectors we provided, and don't take risks with grammar you haven't mastered.

Ready to get graded? Head over to PrepMyFrench and submit your first Section B essay today!