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In Listening, use the example
at the beginning of the first section to familiarize
yourself with the sound, the situation, and
the speakers.
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Keep listening until the
recording stops, looking only at the questions
that relate to the part being played.
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There are often pauses
in the recording between different sections.
Use these to prepare for the next set of questions.
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Answer Listening questions
in the order they appear on the Question Paper.
Remember that they normally follow the order
of the information in the recording.
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At the end of the recording
you have some time to transfer your answers
to the Answer Sheet. Check your grammar and
spelling as you do so.
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In Academic Reading, begin by going quickly
through each passage to identify features
such as the topic, the style, the likely source,
the writers purpose and the intended reader.
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As you read, don’t
try to understand the precise meaning of every
word or phrase. You don’t have time,
and those parts of the text might not be tested
anyway.
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Reading tasks sometimes
have an example answer. If this is the case,
study it and decide why it is correct.
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Some tasks require you
to use words from the text in the answer;
in others you should use your own words. Check
the instructions carefully.
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The instructions may also
include a word limit, e.g. Use no more than
three words. Keep to this by avoiding unnecessary
words in your answer.
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In Academic Writing, you
must always keep to the topic set. Never try
to prepare sections of text before the exam.
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Keep to the suggested timing:
there are more marks possible for Task 2 than
Task 1.
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Organize and link your
ideas and sentences appropriately, using a
wide range of language and showing your ability
(in Task 2) to discuss ideas and express opinions.
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If you write less than
150 words in Task 1 or less than 250 in Task
2 you will lose marks, but there is no maximum
number of words for either.
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When you plan your essay,
allow plenty of time at the end to check your
work.
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In Speaking, don’t
try to give a prepared speech, or talk about
a different topic from the one you are asked
to discuss.
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Always speak directly to
the Examiner, not to the recording equipment.
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Whenever you reply ‘Yes’
or ‘No’ to the Examiner’s
questions, add more details to your answer.
In each case, aim to explain at least one
point.
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Remember that you are not
being tested on your general knowledge but
on your ability to communicate effectively.
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Organize and link your
ideas and sentences appropriately, talking
clearly at normal speed and using a wide range
of structures and vocabulary.