Some last tips and the best of luck

Hi! I hope you're not too nervous about the exam, they're already around the corner! You need to keep calm and focus on good results, I'm sure you can do great ;)

So, here I give you some last tips for the subjective parts of the exam; probably the ones which make you feel more nervous.

TIPS FOR THE WRITING TEST     

DO

•      Read each question very carefully.

•      Remember that Question 1 is compulsory.

•      Choose Part 2 questions on the basis of what interests you the most but also bear in mind the task type.

•      Decide exactly what information you are being asked to give.

•      Identify the target reader, your role as writer and your purpose in writing.

•      Check which task type you are being asked to write.

•      Organise your ideas and make a plan before you write. 

•      Use a pen, not a pencil.

•      Write in an appropriate style.

•      Calculate how many words on average you write on a line and multiply this average by the number of lines to estimate how much you have written – don't waste time counting words individually.

•      Follow your plan and keep in mind your purpose for writing.

•      Use as wide a range of structure and vocabulary as you can but think carefully about when to use idioms.

•      Use paragraphs and indent when you start a new paragraph.

•      Check for spelling errors and the use of punctuation such as capital letters, apostrophes, commas, etc.

•      Check structures: subject-verb agreement, tenses, word order, singular and plural nouns.

•      Make sure that your handwriting can be read by the examiner.

DON'T

•      Don't attempt a question if you feel unsure about the format.

•      Don't include irrelevant material.

•      Don't write out a rough version and then try to write a good copy – you will not have time.

 

TIPS FOR THE SPEAKING TEST

DO                     

•      Make sure you know what you have to do in each part of the test and the timing involved.

•      Listen to the instructions carefully and focus on the task set.

•      Listen actively to your partner, develop their ideas and opinions and work with them.

•      Show interest in and respect for your partner's ideas and views.

•      Respond as fully as possible and extend your ideas and opinions, giving reasons where possible.

DON'T

•      Don't let your partner always 'take the lead' – you must also initiate.

•      Don't waffle – be direct, get to the point and say what you mean.

•      Don't speak during your partner's long turn.

•      Don't waste your opportunities to show the examiners what you can do.

•      Don't ask the examiners how you have done.

•      Don't monopolise the discussion. You must be sensitive to turn-taking.