Euro Exam Angol - Practice Test B2 - Set1

Euro Examinations Practice Test  Level B2

Set One



CONTENTS Exam Guide

Page 2

Test 1 Reading Question Paper Answer Sheet

Answer Keys Test 1: Reading The Answer Key

Page 58

Test 2: Listening The Answer Key The Tapescript

Page 60 Page 62

Test 3: Writing Marking schemes Sample answer

Page 66 Page 68

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Page 5 Page 15

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Test 2 Listening Question Paper Answer Sheet

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Page 17 Page 21

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Test Test 3 Writing Question Paper Answer Sheet

Page 23 Page 26

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Test 4 Grammar and Vocabulary Question Paper Answer Sheet

Page 27 Page 33

Test 5 Mediation Part A Question and Answer Sheet Mediation Part B Question Paper Answer Sheet • •

Test 6 Speaking

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Test 5: Mediation Answer Key for Part A The Tapescript Answer Key for Part B Sample answer

Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76

Test 6: Speaking Marking schemes

Page 78

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Test 4: Grammar and Vocabulary The Answer Key Page 70

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Page 57

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Page 37 Page 39 Page 43

This publication has been printed on recycled paper.

Page 45

Copyrigh t 2007 Euro Examinatio n Centre. All rights reserved. No parts of this publication m ay be reproduced, distributed, transm itted, displayed, published or broadcast without the prior written permission of the Euro Examination Ltd. The Euroexam is a registered trademark of Euro Examination Ltd. Jelen kiadvány teljes egészében szerzői mű, az Euro Nyelvvizsga Kft. szellemi tulajdona. Bárminemű sokszorosítás vagy további felhasználás kizárólag az Euro Nyelvvizsga Kft. kifejezett írásos hozzájárulásával engedélyezett! Az euroexam az Euro Nyelvvizsga Kft. Magyarországon és más országokban bejegyzett védjegye.

Exam Guide

Page 2

Exam Guide

Level B2

The Euro and EuroPro exams test communicative competence by testing success in real communication. communication. Exam tasks are directly based on the Common European Framework of Framework of the Council of Europe. Europe. Passing the Euro or the EuroPro Exam indicates that the candidate can undertake a variety of real-life tasks in English. Below is a table showing for each test: its name, the number of tasks, the time allowed and the number of available marks. Each of the tests is then described on the following pages. In order to pass candidates are expected to achieve 65% of the total marks available, as well as getting 40% or more in each test. These thresholds will vary slightly from examination to examination depending depending of the difficulty of the tasks. Test numb er

Test

Number of tasks

Time

Marks Marks

Test 1 Test 2 Test 3 Test 4 Test 5 Test 6

Reading Listening Writing Grammar & Vocabulary Mediation (Optional) Speaking

4 3 2 3 3 4

40’ 40’ 60’ 40’ 20’+30’ 10+20’

25 25 25 25 25 25

Ap prox pr ox.. 4 hrs hr s 20’ + breaks

Total tim e / Marks Marks available

text of 350-450 words, normally an article, letter or narrative.

Test 1- Reading (Time: 40 minutes)

Task 1 – Short texts

5 points

You match five short texts (hand-written notes, short advertisements, notices, instructions, directions, or excerpts from a leaflet), with one of seven possible responses (pictures, titles, notes, definitions, etc.). An example is provided.

Task 2 – Paragraph Headings

6 points

There are six paragraphs for which you must find the most appropriate heading from a choice of eight paragraph headings. Two headings are not needed. An example is provided.

Task 3 – Scan Reading

7 points

You read four texts on a single topic and nine statements containing information from one of the texts. Your task is to decide which section each statement comes from. An example is provided.

Task 4 – Multiple choice

150

7 points

Test 2 - Listening (Time: 40 minutes)

Task 1 – Short pieces

6 points

You listen twice to six short recordings made in the same location, and match them with eight pictures or eight short pieces of text, (e.g. a list, email extracts, advertisements) advertisements)

Task 2 – Notes

9 points

You listen twice to an extended monologue. There are notes based on the text which contains nine gaps. Each gap requires a piece of information which you must write in no more than three words, whilst listening.

Exam Guide Task 3 – Radio/TV Programme

Page 3 10 points

You listen twice to an excerpt from a radio or TV programme. You answer ten multiple choice questions while listening. The programme may be news, documentary or formal discussion.

Task 2 – Multiple Choice Gap fill

You receive a written text of 150-200 words with ten gaps where a single content word has been removed. For each gap, the task is to choose the correct word from four options.

Task 3 – Modified Cloze

(Time: 60 minutes)

12,5 points

You read several pieces of written or diagrammatic text (leaflets, notes, letters, maps, timetables) providing a context and information for the task. You are asked to write a c.a. 200 word transactional letter, email or message using the information provided.

Task 2 – Extended Writing

6,25 points

You receive a written text of 150-200 words with ten gaps where a single grammar word has been removed. For each gap, the task is to write in a correct word.

Test 3 - Writing Task 1 – Transactional Task

6,25 points

12,5 points

There are three tasks from which you choose one. You must write a c.a. 200 word text within the genre specified. The type of text could be an article, a report, a descriptive or narrative composition, or a discursive essay.

Test 5 - Mediation Part A (Time: 20 minutes)

Task 1 – Dialogue

8 points

You hear a dialogue of six turns between two participants, a Hungarian (speaking in Hungarian) and an English speaker (speaking in English). One of the speakers may be an official working in the public sphere. You write down the main points of the conversation in the opposite language to the one you hear. Two examples are given.

Test 5 - Mediation Part B (Time: 30 minutes)

Task 1 – Summary

Test 4 - Grammar and Vocabulary (Time: 40 minutes)

Task 1 – Dictation

12,5 points

You listen to a recorded extended monologue of 85-120 words. You have to write the text down word word for word. word. The text is heard three times, once all the way through with no break. The text is then heard again broken down into small units with each unit repeated once. There breaks between units to allow time for writing.

5 points

You receive text in English of 200-225 words, written in five paragraphs. For each paragraph you are given three summaries written in Hungarian. You must choose the most appropriate summary.

Task 2 – Hungarian to English

7+5 points

You receive a personal or semi-formal letter of about 80 words written in Hungarian. You have to translate the letter into English.

Exam Guide

Test 6 - Speaking

Page 4

25 points (Time: 10 minutes preparation + 20 minutes interview)

Task 3 – Situations

You are examined in pairs. There are two examiners: one an interlocutor, the other an assessor. You have ten minutes before the test for preparing Task 2. You may use printed (i.e. non-electronic) non-electronic) dictionaries. dictionaries.

You receive a cue card. The card describes a situation, your role and gives you an instruction. You speak, the interlocutor gives a scripted reply and then you respond to the reply. You will have three cue cards. You and your partner will alternate in doing this task.

Task 1 – Warm-up The interlocutor will ask you one introductory question, and then two questions on another topic. Topics include travel, work, family, sport, cinema, hobbies, education, relationships, housing, news and current affairs and the environment. environment.

Task 2 – The Picture Story You receive a picture story with an opening line; the task is to tell the story. Before meeting the examiner, you have ten minutes to prepare a story. You may make notes in the preparation stage but should not read aloud from a prepared script.

Task 4 – Communication Task You receive a topic card which contains a debatable point or question. (e.g. what are some of the problems of living in a foreign country?) First you and your partner think of issues which answer the question or contribute to the debate. Then you discuss, expand on and prioritise these issues. Task 4 is the only task in the speaking test where you talk to your partner.

LEVEL B2  VANTAGE

Test 1 - Reading

Time:

•

40 minutes

Answer all the questions

•

Write all your answers on the separate answer sheet

•

You must not speak to the other candidates

Test 1 – Reading

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This page is blank!

Test 1 – Reading

Page 7

Task One: Short texts (10 m inu te s) – Q ue stio ns 1-5 The following short texts are from a problem page. Match the letters with one of the Problems. • The first one has been done for you. •

Problems

Example

Hello, Well, this is a tricky one. I hope your husband’s loyal to you because it’s him you’ll have to talk to and decide what to do – it’s about his mother. She has no

A B C D

My mother-in-law suddenly wants to play grandma

E F

I think I’m too young for a kid – but I’ve got one

G H

Pride runs in the family – how do I talk to my Dad?

My aunt thinks I’ll jump whenever she whistles I’m being forced into marriage by my father My husband and I are not really talking and it’s a serious problem now My sister-in-law can’t cope with her new life as a mother Financial worries are causing troubles in my marriage

Th e e xa m p le l e t t e r m a t c h e s Pro b le m “ A ” . Th e a n sw e r ” A ” h a s b e e n w rit t e n

1

Hi, These difficulties are hard on relationships and depending on what kind of problems you have, it can make one partner feel very bitter about the other. Talk to each other and try to be constructive: If you are in debt, don’t ’ 4

Hi, Be proud of being a father. You have brought another human being into the world who is going to look to you for love, support and guidance and they don’t care you are only eighteen. Baby years are usually the

2

Hi, You are in an extremely difficult position and it seems that you can't avoid some kind of trauma. If you go along with your parents’ wishes you could end up being a miserable wife for the rest of your life, if you go a ain t them ou mi ht be 5

Hi, This is a difficult situation. Of course you want things to be OK, but it is reasonable to want some time to yourself, too. Why don’t you write her a letter? She needs to understand that you have your own life and ’

3

Hi, Everyone tells parents how wonderful it is to have babies but no-one prepares them for the shock of having a new life in their world. Your brother and his wife will need to sort out the question of who’s doing what themselves the onl

Test 1 – Reading

Page 8

Task Two: Paragraph Headings (10 m inu te s) – Q u e stio n s 6-11 Rea d the text and match the pa ragraph heading to the appropriate paragraph.

•

•

The first one has been done for you.

•

There are two extra paragraph titles that you do not need.

A

PLACES TO VISIT

B

EVENTUALLY ACCEPTED

C

SIR WILLIAM’S RETIREMENT

D SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE (EXAMPLE) E

THE ISLAND’S CELTIC CASTLES

F

GETTING ABOUT

G INSPIRATION FOR A NEW PROJECT H ANOTHER IDEA I

GETTING THERE

The flag of the Isle of Man

Test 1 – Reading

Page 9

The Isle of Man Situated midway between England and Ireland, the Isle of Man is a sleepy haven of peace and tranquillity. The island also has something for lovers of the fast-paced too, hosting the world famous Tourist Trophy motorcycle races and other motor sport events for which the island is internationally renowned.

Example: Paragraph “D” is the best heading 6. 600 miles of uncluttered roads criss-cross breathtaking scenery as do many well-maintained footpaths. As well as enjoying a wide range of country pursuits or sea sports, visitors can go back to another era by experiencing one of the Isle of Man’s vintage transport systems - steam railway, electric tram or horse tram. 7. The island’s history dates back more than 10,000 years. In 1997 a new £6 million heritage centre, the House of Manannan, opened in Peel, on the Island’s west coast. It provides information about a variety of historical sights ranging from Celtic monuments to the best preserved medieval fortress in Britain - Castle Rushen. All these sights are accessible to tourists. 8. The Isle of Man was also the birthplace of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. Sir William Hillary, the founder, got his idea for the service after moving to the Island in 1808. From his Fort Anne mansion overlooking Douglas Bay, he was aware of the treacherous nature of the Irish Sea with many boats being wrecked around the Island’s coast. He drew up plans for a lifeboat service run by trained crews. 9. Initially he received little response from the Admiralty but on appealing to the more philanthropic members of London society, the plans were enthusiastically adopted and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution for the Preservation of Life from Shipwreck (which later became the RNLI) was founded in 1824. 10. At the age of 60, Sir William took part in the rescue of the Royal Mail Steam Packet St. George, which foundered on Conister Rock at the entrance to Douglas harbour. He commanded the lifeboat and everyone aboard the St George was rescued with no loss of life. The experience prompted him to build the Tower of Refuge on Conister Rock. Completed in 1832, the tower provided shelter for shipwrecked mariners until the lifeboat could reach them. Until recently, the tower was constantly kept supplied with fresh bread and water. 11.The Isle of Man is ideally placed for yachtsmen to visit en route from Scotland or Ireland, and take shelter in one of the Isle of Man’s pretty harbours. However, there is easy access by air or sea. Major carriers are: The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company which operates passenger and ferries between the ports of Douglas and Heysham/Liverpool and Manx Airlines, which operates regular flights from many UK airports including

Test 1 – Reading

Page 10

Task Three: Scanning for Information (10 m inu te s) – Q u e stio n s 12-18 •

Read the following biographies of famous celebrities and decide if the information is in text A, B, C or D.

Example: They were an untidy couple. The correc t answer is: A

Information to find: 12.

They lived together for a dec ade before getting married.

13.

They owned a huge piec e of land.

14.

It is said they can understand each other without words.

15.

They spend their wea lth on humanitarian c auses.

16.

They had a fabulous c eremony when they got married.

17.

These people were literary soul mates.

18.

One member of this c ouple was named a fter some c lothes.

Text A: Iris Murdoch & John Bayley A libertine spirit with a brilliant mind, Iris Murdoch was a woman ahead of her time: philosopher, author of 26 novels, and winner of the prestigious literary Booker Prize. She also had a sensual, spellbinding presence that cast a powerful spell on everybody who met her, including her husband, Oxford professor and writer John Bayley. They were together for 43 years. They lived in Oxford in a famously chaotic household. He did the cooking, she did the shopping, and in addition to their literary and academic pursuits, they were enthusiastic travelers, dance partners, poker players—and, above all, swimmers. They never had any children, and while she had affairs that Bayley tolerated, it was by all accounts, a supremely happy union of two scholars.

Test 1 – Reading

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Text B: Paul Newman & Joanne Woodward In Hollywood, a town where marriages fade faster than a bad movie, actors Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward are as famous for their marital success as for their Oscars. How have they managed to stay together for 44 years? It probably helps that they live in Connecticut, not in fantasyland. They also share a profession, three grown children and an interest in philanthropy. Even the stars favor this glamorous couple. “You stimulate each other’s intellect,” says a Web astrologer, looking over the couple’s 2002 horoscopes. “You challenge each other’s world view. At times you may read each other’s minds and finish each other’s sentences. You can be a mentally and technically creative team.” Newman and Woodward also sponsor the Save the Children foster parent campaign and a camp for children with life-threatening illnesses. In 1982 Newman set up a multimillion-dollar corporation that markets everything from popcorn to spaghetti sauce. All profits go to charity.

Text C: Sting & Trudie Styler In an extravagant, fairy-tale wedding attended by lots of celebrity friends, Sting, the world-renowned singer and songwriter, married his long-time love, Trudie Styler, an actress and film producer. This 1992 ceremony not only celebrated the couple’s ten years together, but also their three children (they’ve since had a fourth) and their collaborative work for environmental causes. Born Gordon Sumner in 1951 into a working class family in Newcastle, England, Sting got his name from fellow musicians—a tribute to the striped “bee-like” shirts he wore. Teacher by day, punk rocker by night, he made it big in 1979 when his band, The Police, produced the hit single Roxanne. In the early 80s, shortly before The Police was formed and his first marriage broke up, Sting met the vivacious blond Styler. Born in England in 1955, Trudie had run away from home at age 17 with dreams of becoming an actress. She went on to attend the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and has acted in and produced a number of movies, including Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.

Text D: George & Olivia Harrison Olivia Harrison was by her husband’s side when the legendary “quiet” Beatle died of cancer last year at age 58. So was their son, Dhani, 24. Always a sweetly serene couple in public, the Harrisons weren’t a favourite of the sensational newspapers that hunt famous rock guitarists. Perhaps it was because they met after the Beatles, arguably the best pop group of all time, had disbanded. They met after the scandal of George’s first marriage, which ended when his wife, model Patti Boyd, took off with his best friend, superstar guitarist Eric Clapton. The friendship survived the betrayal, thanks to George’s forgiving nature. George met Olivia Arias, an assistant in the merchandising department at A&M records, in the late 70s. She was smart, pretty and centered. In 1978, they got married and had Dhani, their only child. In England, they lived in a handsome mansion in Henley-on-Thames, not far from London. It had high walls and extensive grounds, where George grew all kinds of plants. The couple loved to travel to India together, to

Test 1 – Reading

Task Four: Reading for detailed information (10

Page 12 minute s) – Q u e stio n s 19-

-2 5

You are going to read an article about smoking. Answer the questions with the answer that you think fits best according to the text. •

Rea d the text and answer the questions after it.

By Caren Benjamin Nobody smokes in Catherine Nagle's house. Nobody. When smokers come to visit, she hands them an ashtray and tells them to step outside if they want to have a cigarette. She won't even make an exception for her mother-in-law – though her husband made her break the news. Nagle believes the fact that her 16-year-old son doesn't smoke, despite typical teenage peer pressure, is thanks largely to the household's total smoking ban. "I think the fact that we won't let his grandmother or aunts or uncles smoke in the house shows how firmly we believe that smoking is bad," she says. "He sees that we think it’s wrong for adults to do it so he won’t think 'it's something I can do when I get to be 18 when it's legal.' " A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association suggests she is on the right track. The study found that a total ban on smoking in the home is the most effective way to keep teenagers from picking up the habit. Whether or not parents smoke is still the most important factor, but the JAMA study found children of non-smoking parents who let other people smoke in their home are almost as likely to become smokers as kids from homes where at least one parent smokes and there is a total ban. Ideally, the home smoking ban should be in place when your child is born. Aside from the obvious health reasons, there are good sociological reasons for this. If you've got young children, then usually it's not difficult for parents to ask relatives not to smoke in the house. Grandparents, uncles and friends think that's a right that parents have. By the time the child is 15 or 17, it's a much harder sell, in fact by that age it's probably not worth the fight. Even in a household where one parent smokes, a total ban can still be very effective. If mom makes dad smoke on the porch, and dad agrees to do so, that's a pretty significant message to kids about the dangers of smoking and about the fact that even the adult smoker knows the behavior is dangerous. As an added bonus, for smokers who are forced outside their homes to smoke, the habit becomes something they have to consciously choose to do. They think to themselves “'Do I want to get up and have a cigarette, or do I want to stay here and finish watching this TV show?" As often as not, they choose the TV show. As nicotine consumption decreases, so does addiction level, eventually making it easier for the parent to quit smoking.

Test 1 – Reading

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Questions for Task Four: 19.

A

B C

D

20.

A B

C

D

Which of the following is the best summary of the text? The best way to stop your children from becoming smokers is to stop relatives from smoking in your house. Teenagers are more likely to smoke if they see their family smoking. The best way to stop your children from becoming smokers is not to allow anybody to smoke in your house. Teenagers are more likely to smoke if their parents smoke.

Why, in Catherine Nagle’s opinion, doesn’t her son smoke? His mother does not allow him smoke anywhere. Because the ban on adults smoking in the house makes him see it is wrong. His friends don’t smoke and peer group pressure is so strong he doesn’t do it either. He is not 18 and it is not legal for him to smoke.

A B C D

23. What

A B C D

A B C D

Which of the following most closely reflects Catherine Nagle’s opinion? Smoking should be banned. Smoking outdoors reduces the health risk for her son. Her husband should tell people bad news. You should stick to your principles, even if it makes life difficult sometimes.

22.

Children are most likely to become smokers in which of the following households?

is the main reason a smoking ban should be in place from the time the child is born? It might help relatives give up smoking. It is easier to persuade people not to smoke around a young child. Smoking has a damaging effect on the health of a young child. Smokers don’t like the smell of a young child.

24. Why

A B

21.

One parent smokes but nobody is allowed to smoke in the house. Neither parent smokes but visitors are allowed to smoke in the house. Neither parent smokes and nobody is allowed to smoke in the house. None of the child’s family or friends smoke.

C D

25.

A B C D

does a parent agreeing to smoke outside reduce the risk of a child smoking? It shows that the smoker knows that smoking is unhealthy. It shows that women can tell men what to do. It makes it easier to persuade friends and relatives to smoke outside. The child associates smoking with being cold.

How does smoking outside help the smoker? They watch less television They get fresh air while smoking. Smoking becomes inconvenient so the smoker is likely to smoke less. They don’t have to speak to their husband / wife while smoking

That is the end of the Reading test

Test 1 – Reading

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Test 1 – Reading ANSWER SHEET

TEST 1: READING –

Centre

Candidate Code

Code

Questions 1-5

 A

B

C

D

E

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G

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Questions 6-11

A

B

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 D

E

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I

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F

G

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Test 1 – Reading ANSWER SHEET

Questions 12-18

 A

B

C

D

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B

C

D

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B

C

D

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D

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Questions 19-25

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Test 2 - Listening

Time:

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•

approx. 40 minutes

Answer all the questions You may write on the question paper but make sure you write all your answers on the separate answer sheet (You will have 5 minutes at the end of the test for this)

Test 2 - Listening

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– Questions 1-6

•

You will hear six short conversations. Listen, look at the pictures and decide which picture is the correct illustration for each conversation.

•

Write the letter next to the question number on the answer sheet.

•

You will hear each recording twice.

Test 2 - Listening

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Test 2 - Listening

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– Questions 7-15

•

•

•

 

Matt Thompson, a man of principle?

Matt Thompson Matt’s job •

He found his job

•

He used to go to Miss Gold to pick up the

•

He was annoyed because he often had to

Lorna •

Lorna was employed as a

•

Matt approached Miss Gold in order to

•

In the meeting with Miss Gold he felt

After Matt left the firm •

Matt wrongly thought his wife would

•

Matt’s

•

Now Matt thinks in defending his principles he

marriage

Test 2 - Listening

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– Questions 16-25

•

•

[ ] •

•

the physical activities. snails and fish. in 1926.

looking after the nature table.

in 1925.

model-making and drawing.

on his fifth birthday. on his sixth birthday.

never walked to school with his mother.

had 50 in a class.

did exercises on his way to school.

had at least 40 in a class.

only twice walked to school.

was in the centre of Cambridge.

didn’t mind walking to school.

was just outside Cambridge.

was 18. left and had a child.

for the first time.

was very strict.

in a team.

was the headmaster.

only with cans and bits of tyres. every week.

were not physically punished. were punished for talking. shouted a lot. were taught in three classes.

learnt to ride a bike. was given a brand new bike. met his cousin John. had a bike for the first time.

Test 2 - Listening

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Yes, very much

It’s better in every way.

Absolutely not

It’s worse in every way.

He enjoyed some things about it.

It’s better in some ways, worse in

He only liked the first school.

others. He doesn’t say.

Test 2 – Listening ANSWER SHEET

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TEST 2: LISTENING –

Centre

Candidate Code

Code

Questions 1-6

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

A

B

C

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E

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Questions 7-15 7

12

Do not write here! 8







Do not write here!

Do not write here!


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Questions 16-25

A

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Test 3 - Writing

Time:

60 minutes

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•


Test 3 – Writing

•

Page 24

You must answer this question.

You received this letter and information from a friend. You have made notes next to the information leaflet.

lots of tourists – English – German big beach – v nice but crowded

Hi, Great news! You’ll never believe it but I’ve won a competition. I’m going to Spain for a two week holiday from 10 th – 24th September.

Hotel Nueva – Alicante - 300 rooms (all en-suite) - 10 minutes walk from beach - 15 minutes from town centre

Even better, it’s a holiday for two and I want you to come with me! What do you think? We haven’t been on holiday together for ages and we always had so much fun. The flight and the accommodation are all paid for including breakfast and dinner.

Hotel Grande – Torrenueva - 80 room (all en suite) - 20 minutes from beach - 5 minutes walk from old town

Also, there is a choice between two hotels in different towns and I can’t decide. I know you’ve you’ ve been before so which place do ou think is better. I’ve enclosed the

historic old town– castle etc beach – rocky, quiet good restaurants, no nightclubs

Write a formal letter to the tourist information office in the town of your choice requesting further information about conditions, prices and any

Test 3 – Writing

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special events or programmes during your stay. Include some information about yourself and your interests.

Test 3 – Writing

Choose only

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of the following questions – 1,2

3. Write

words.

You can include addresses, dates etc if you want to but they will not be marked.

You see the following advertisement in a newspaper you are reading. A leading British newspaper – The Correspondent – would like to publish articles from people living in Central & Eastern Europe. The title of the feature is: ‘Approaching the European Union? – Life in Central & Eastern Europe Today’

You are the chairperson of your local residents’ committee. A multinational company would like to build a shopping centre in your neighbourhood. Your neighbours have asked you to write a report to the local council summarising the advantages and disadvantages from the residents’ point of view.

You see the following in a newspaper . Win a trip to anywhere in the world! The prize will be awarded to the writer who gives the most interesting or unusual reason for wanting to go or the best description of how you would spend your time there. Don’t forget to tell us where you want to go! The best story wins an all expenses paid week in your chosen location.

Test 3 – Writing

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Test 3 – Writing ANSWER SHEET

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TEST 3: WRITING –

Centre Code

Candidate Code

.............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. ..............................................................................................

Test 3 – Writing ANSWER SHEET

Page 26

.............................................................................................. .............................................................................................. ..............................................................................................


Test 4 Grammar & Vocabulary

Time:

•

20 minutes + dictation

Answer all the questions

•


•


Test 4 – Grammar & Vocabulary

This page is blank!

Page 28


Task One: Dictation – Skiing In this part of the test you will hea r a text about getting rea dy for a skiing holiday. You must write down every word in the text on the numbered lines on the separate Answer Sheet.

•

•

You will be marked for getting the co rrec t words and correc t spelling.

You will hear the text three times: First - you will hear the whole text. Then - you will hear small piec es of the text. These will ea c h be repea ted once. •

You may make notes on this sheet of paper but please make sure you write your answers on the a nswer sheet provided. Yo u r n o t e s

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.

DON’T FORGETto copy your answers onto the separate answer sheet!

Page 29


Page 30

Task Two: Multiple Choice Gap Fill – Q u e stio n s 1-10 C omplete the following a rticle by choosing the c orrec t word from the four options.

G renberg’s Town C ouncil: who represents YOU Saul Denman meets Councillor Arnie Fischer C ounc illor Arnie Fischer has been a town c ounc illor for the _EXA M PLE _ fifteen years. We asked him to tell us something about his work.

“Well first of all I should _1_ you in on the a rea that I _2_. My district of the town is c alled Babylon and it _3_ in a wide range o f different people. Babylon _4_ from the centre of the town, right out to the green _5_. It’s shaped like a hook.

“So the ma ke-up of the district is extremely diverse. Babylon c ontains a tiny part of the c ommercial _6_, a larger piec e of the poo r inner city and

_7_ out into richer green suburbs. I’ve tended to pick up most of my votes from the _8_ populated inner city area s.

“Major changes are under way, though. What has happened is that richer people have _9_ up large amounts of inner city property and have

_10_ them up. The next elec tion will be an up hill struggle for me.”

Page 31


Questions for Task Two: Example:

A. early

B. last

C. late

D. first

The correct answer is B.

1.

A. take

B. inform

C. tell

D. fill

2.

A. delegate

B. manda te

C. represent

D. c laim

3.

A. includes

B. gives

C. takes

D. c ontains

4.

A. moves

B. exists

C. includes

D. runs

5.

A. belt

B. c ircumferenc e C. ring

D. border

6.

A. edge

B. c entre

C. loc ation

D. piec e

7.

A. shorten

B. flows

C. c omes

D. extends

8.

A. c ompletely

B. weightily

C. thickly

D. densely

9.

A. sold

B. purc hased

C. bought

D. marketed

10.

A. taken

B. brought

C. made

D. done


Task Three: Gap Fill

Page 32

– Q u e stio n s 11-20

For questions 11-20, complete the following note by writing the missing words on the separate answer sheet. Use only one word for ea ch spa c e. You must think of the word - there are no multiple c hoices

Example: The correc t word is ‘the’.

Diwali, the festival of lights, is perhaps the most important festival in India and is celebrated on the darkest night of _Example_ year. Diwali has always been a festival with _11_ social than religious connotations. The celebrations include activities such _12_ the lighting of lamps and candles or the bursting of crackers. Friends and neighbours exchange special sweets. People sometimes buy new clothes, but in certain communities _13_ is absolutely essential to wear new clothes on this day.

Diwali in India is equivalent to Christmas in the West. Therefore it is also the time

_14_ people get the festival bonus added to _15_ salaries. It marks the beginning of the New Year for a large majority of Hindus. Preparations for the festival begin many days prior _16_ Diwali. It is time for a thorough cleaning of the house _17_ it is believed that Lakshmi will only enter clean and nicely decorated houses.

_18_ times Diwali celebrations get ugly, especially in the metropolitan cities. In New Delhi people start bursting crackers in the evening and this continues till

_19_ early hours of the morning. _20_ a result the city is full of toxic fumes and smoke for almost 10 hours.

Test 4 – Grammar & Vocabulary ANSWER SHEET

Page 33

TEST 4: GRAMMAR & VOCABULARY –

Centre Code

1 Do not write here

Do not write here

Do not write here

Do not write here

Do not write here

Do not write here

Do not write here

Candidate Code


Do not write here

Do not write here

Do not write here

Do not write here

Do not write here

Do not write here

Page 34


Page 35


Centre

Candidate Code

Code

Questions 1-10



A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

Questions 11-20 Example

the Do not write here

11

16

Do not write here 12









Page 36


Page 37


Test 6 - Speaking

Time:

20 minutes

Procedure, Script and Materials

You now have 10 minutes to pr epare the pictur e story •

You may use a dictionary.

•

You must not speak to the other candidates.

•

You may make notes but do not read aloud from the notes in the test.

•

You may take this sheet of paper and your notes into the examination.

•

In the test, give your notes to the examiner when asked.

Test 6 – Speaking Procedure and Interlocutor’s Script

Page 46

Before the exam you have ten minutes preparation time in the preparation room. Here you receive your Mark Sheet and a Picture Story sheet. You are allowed to use your dictionary to prepare your story. There will be two examiners in the exam room – the Interlocutor who is running the exam and the Assessor who is listening and evaluating - and two candidates at a time: INTERLOCUTOR

ASSESSOR

CANDIDATES

•

The Interlocutor will ask you one introductory question, and two on

2-3mins.

another topic.(e.g. food, travel) •

First Candidate A then Candidate B will tell their picture based stories

•

2 mins 2 mins.

Each candidate gets three different situation cards in turns. They start “three-turn” conversations with the

4-5 mins.

Interlocutor •

Candidates receive a card with a sentence describing a problem or situation. After thinking of a few ideas, 3-4 mins.

Test 1 – Reading

Page 47

before coming to an agreement about the most suitable.

Together with the welcome, setting up of tasks and closure the speaking task will be no longer than 20 minutes. The Interlocutor will speak from a script you can see on the following pages.

Test 1 – Reading

Page 48

(maximum 30 seconds)

Good morning / afternoon / evening. My name is < name > and this is my colleague < name >. Have you got your mark sheets? >>> candi dat es hand over f or ms <<<

Please also give me the tasks and your notes. I’ll return these to you later. >>> candi dat es hand over f or ms <<<

So you are < candidate A name > and you are < candidate B name >?

(max 2 minutes) >>> The I nt er l ocut or wi l l ask a sel ect i on of t he f ol l owi ng quest i ons and wi l l f ol l ow up wi t h t he i nt er vent i ons. <<<

What do you do? Where do you live? What languages do you speak? How long have you been learning English? Why is learning English important to you?

Test 1 – Reading

What about you? What do you think? Do you agree? What’s your opinion?

Page 49

Test 1 – Reading

Page 50

Why? In what way? Tell me more. Describe him / her / it.

Now I’d like to ask about a different subject. OK. Thank you. Let’s change subjects. The next topic is…

>>> The I nt er l ocut or wi l l ask at l east one ‘ A’ quest i on and one ‘ B’ quest i on. <<<

Family

Tell me something about your family. Who is the hardest working person in your family? Which member of your family understands you best?

Is family more important to old people than young people? Is it better to grow up in a small family or a big family? Are big families better for society? Sport

Are you a sporty person?

Test 1 – Reading

Do you watch big sporting events like the Olympics or the World Cup?

Is sport about winning or taking part? Do you think that sport is important for a nation? Why does sport encourage so much excitement?

Page 51

Test 1 – Reading

Page 52

Do you often go to the cinema? What sort of films do you enjoy? What films turn you off?

Do you think Hollywood is a good or negative influence? Film stars are greatly overrated. Do you agree? The cinema has much less importance now that we have TV. Thank you. (2 x 2 minutes 3 + instructions)

In this part of the test, you are going to tell the stories you prepared earlier. < Candidate A > here are the pictures and your notes.

Now, I’d like you to tell your story. You may look at your notes but please do not read aloud from what you have written. Tell the story to < Candidate B >, < Assessor > and me. Remember you only have two minutes so don’t worry if I interrupt you. All right? You have 30 seconds to look through the pictures and your notes. Please start when you are ready. >>> The I nt er l ocut or gi ves Candi dat e A t he pi ct ur es and not es t hat he/ she pr epar ed bef or e t he exam. <<< >>> 30 seconds - The candi dat e l ooks t hr ough hi s/ her not es .

Test 1 – Reading

Page 53

I f necessar y >>>

Please start now. >>> 2 mi nut es - The candi dat e t el l s hi s/ her st or y usi ng t he not es and t he pi ct ur es. <<<

Thank you. >>> Thi s i s t hen r epeat ed wi t h t he ot her candi dat e. <<<

Test 1 – Reading

Page 54

(5 minutes) In this part of the test you must say something that is appropriate to say in a situation. Read each card and follow the instructions. >>> The I nt er l ocut or gi ves a car d t o Candi dat e A, who r eads i t and s t ar t s a c onver s at i on wi t h t he I nt er l oc ut or . Thi s i s r epeat ed wi t h Candi dat e B, and t hen t he whol e sequence t wo mor e t i mes, wi t h di f f er ent car ds. <<<

< Candidate A > Read this card. When you

are ready please start a conversation with me. I am your friend. >>> # Car d 1. <<>>

Please start now.

You are at home feeling bored. Ring your friend. Greet him / her and

>>> Candi dat e <<<

suggest going to the

Well, actually, I saw it last week. Would you

cinema to see the

like to meet for a drink instead? >>> Candi dat e <<<

Thank you.

< Candidate B > Read this card. When you

are ready please start a conversation with me. I am your colleague. >>> # Car d 2. <<>>

Please start now. >>> Candi dat e <<<

I've got a terrible headache! I don't know what to do. >>> Candi dat e <<<

Thank You.

You are at work. Your colleague is sitting with his / her eyes closed. Find out what the matter is.

Test 1 – Reading

Page 55

< Candidate A > Here is your next card.

Please read it and speak when you are ready. I am the shop assistant. >>> # Car d 3. <<>>


Butter? I am afraid we only have margarine. >>> Candi dat e <<<

Thank you.

You are in a supermarket. You need to buy some butter but you can't find any. Ask the

Test 1 – Reading

Page 56

< Candidate B > Here is your next card.

Please read it and speak when you are ready. I am your colleague. >>> # Car d 4. <<>>

Please start now.

Your office has just been redecorated.

>>> Candi dat e <<<

You would like to

Sure. Let me just finish writing this email

move your desk to

first. Where do you want to move it?

another part of the

>>> Candi dat e <<<

room. You go to

Thank You.

< Candidate A > Here is your last card.

Please read it and speak when you are ready. I am your friend. >>> # Car d 5. <<>>


Your friend is going for a walk. It's a nice, but cold, spring day. Advise him / her to wear a

Actually, I am quite warm. I will be OK in a sweater, won't I? >>> Candi dat e <<<

Thank you.

< Candidate B > Here is your last card.

Please read it and speak when you are ready. I am your friend. >>> # Car d 6. <<>>

Please start now.

Your train to Prague is leaving in 30

>>> Candi dat e <<<

minutes. You are

Your keys? No idea… Anyway, do you want

still at home. You

some coffee? …No, sorry.

must rush, but you

Test 1 – Reading

Thank You. Thank you.

Page 57

Test 1 – Reading

Page 58

(4 minutes)

For the final part of the test, you are going to talk to each other about a topic I will give you. I’m just going to listen. >>> The I nt er l ocut or pi cks up a Topi c Car d, r eads i t out l oud and gi ves t he f ol l owi ng i nst r uct i ons: <<<

First make a spoken list of four or five things. Then, when you have done that, discuss which one is the best/ most important. Remember to give reasons for what you say. You have 3 minutes altogether to try and agree. All right? >>> The I nt er l ocut or pl aces t he t opi c car d i n f r ont of t he candi dat es. <<<

Thank you. That is the end of the test. Good bye. Have a nice weekend / evening.

>>> The car ds f or candi dat es ar e on page 56. <<<

Test 1 – Reading

Page 59

(10 minutes to prepare a 2 minute story) In the test you are going to tell a story based on these pictures on the following page. •

You have 10 minutes to prepare the story and decide how you can tell the story in an interesting and enjoyable manner.

Your notes (Remember. Only write notes, not the whole story)

Test 1 – Reading

Page 60

Test 1 – Reading

The story starts like this:

Page 61

“Ian had big plans for Friday night.”

Test 1 – Reading

The story starts like this: holiday.”

Page 62

“Bill wanted to go camping for the family

Test 1 – Reading

B2-Sample Set One-4-M

When you are choosing where to go on holiday, what helps you decide? 1. the weather 2. …………….. 3. …………….. 4. …………….. etc.

B2-Sample Set 1-4-N

What are some of the main causes of disagreement between parents and children? 1. staying out late 2. …………………. 3. ………………….

Page 63


Answer Key

Test 1: Reading The Answer Key •

Test 2: Listening The Answer Key The Tapescript • •

Test 3: Writing Marking schemes •

Test 4: Grammar and Vocabulary The Answer Key The Tapescript for Task 1 • •

Test 5: Mediation The Answer Key and a Sample Answer The Tapescript for Part A Language Marking Criteria • • •

Page 58

Test 1 – Reading ANSWER KEY

TEST 1: READING –

Centre

Candidate Code

Code

Questions 1-5

 A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

Questions 6-11

A

B

C

 D

E

F

G

H

I

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

Page 59

Test 1 – Reading ANSWER KEY

Questions 12-18

 A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

Questions 19-25

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

Test 2 – Listening ANSWER KEY

Page 60

TEST 2: LISTENING –

Centre

Candidate Code

Code

Questions 1-6

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

Questions 7-15 7

12

boring 8

angry 13

(stationery cupboard) key 9

agree (with him) 14

wait 10

ended 15

secretary 11

complain

was an idiot / destroyed his life


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Page 62

Questions 16-25

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D


Page 63

A:

This smells really nice! Who is it for?

B:

Well, it’s for my dad. Don’t laugh, men find it just as relaxing especially after a long day. Or so the shop assistant told me. Anyway, if he doesn’t like it, it’s only a small bottle….

B:

What do you think of this?

A:

It’s a good colour to see from a distance. Is it for your brother?

B:

Yes, he hasn’t got one and I think it’s quite dangerous to ride without it, especially in the city.

A:

Oh, this is what I want, too! It’s great to be able to carry just this and when you open it they are all there. How many can you put in it?

B:

Ten. It’s quite good, isn’t? I hope my sister will like it, you know how she’s always listening to something when she is travelling.

A:

Well, if she doesn’t like it, I’ll have it!

B:

I need your opinion on this. It’s for my aunt but I’m not sure she’ll like it…I mean it’s not like she is always late…

A:

Don’t be silly, I think it’s perfect for her! She is always complaining about how the one she’s got has this really nice sound to it so it never actually wakes her up. I’m sure she’ll be happy to get this.

A:

This is great! Is it for your mum’s next camping trip?

B:

Well, it is for her but I was actually thinking that with her new job she’ll have to drive a lot and you know how much coffee she drinks…Do you think she’ll like it?

A:

I think she will. It’s a lovely present for her.


A:

Page 64

Your brother is not a horror! Not always, anyway…are you giving this to him because he is afraid of the dark?

B:

No, he’s actually fine now. In fact, all he wants to do these days is read under the covers in bed so I thought he might like this. Don’t you think he will?

A:

I’m sure he’ll love it!


A

alarm clock

thermos

Page 65

D

bicycle helmet

candle

aromatherapy bubble bath

G

torch

kettle

CD case

Text for Task Two: Making notes Rebecca

Well, Matt, could you tell us about how you defended your principles and what happened to you.

Matt

Yes, of course, Rebecca. A few years ago now I had a paperpushing job working as a clerk with the management consultancy firm, Bibby and Jenner. What I was doing basically was looking after the files on the firm’s cases. In many ways it was a boring job, but I was happy enough at home, and with my wife working we had enough to get by. To make sense of the whole problem I should tell you this. Whenever we wanted stationery - envelopes, paper or anything – I would go to Miss Gold who had the key to the stationery cupboard. I often felt irritated as I had to wait in her office until she’d finished a meeting. Anyway that was how things were done in the firm. In the September of that year, if I remember correctly, the firm appointed Lorna as a secretary who as part of her job had to join me in the filing work. After a few days I learned that Lorna had been given the key to the stationery cupboard. Well, I thought to myself, I’ve been working here four years and she’s been here four days. Something’s very wrong here. I didn’t say anything to Lorna, but I went straight to Miss Gold to complain. She seemed completely uninterested in the problem, and told me in so many words that I could share a key with Lorna. Well, I was so angry I could hardly control myself. I told her bluntly that either I got my own key or I’d leave the firm. It seemed to me that a matter of principle was at stake.


Page 66

Well, to cut a long story short, I left the firm that afternoon. I really thought that my wife would agree with what I had done, but she was furious. I couldn’t find another job and we couldn’t live on the one income, so soon our marriage ended. At that point the flat went too, and I moved back to my mother’s. Well, I sometimes think, what have I achieved? I can always comfort myself by saying that I stood by my principles. People ask me whether I made the right decision. The answer is clear in my own mind. I think I was an idiot to destroy my life because of a key.

Test 2 – Listening - ANSWER KEY


Page 67

T = TOM BARKER G = Graham Potts T

When did you start school, Graham?

G

Well, let me see. It was just after my fifth birthday, in 1925, no, 1926.

T

That was in Cambridge, was it?

G

Yes, well a village close-by called Camstock. I lived in Camford and walked to school: 3 miles on footpaths and one along a little road.

T

Really! Did you go alone or did your mother take you?

G

Oh no, I don’t think she ever took me. Well, maybe right at the start. She was too busy at home with my 2 younger sisters, so I walked with my friends. Kids have it too easy now. We didn’t think twice about walking that distance, and at least we got more exercise than today’s youngsters.

T

What do you remember most about that school?

G

There were 2 classes, about 18 in the first class and 20 in the second. Now, what was the name of my first teacher? ( pauses ) Can’t remember! Anyway, she was kind and fair, but she soon left to have a baby. Then Miss Strapper took over and she was strict! She didn’t hit us, though the headmaster did. But she got really angry and shouted a lot. If I talked too much in class or she didn’t like my work, I’d have to stand in the corner for hours.

T

What subjects did you do?

G

Oh,….reading, writing and arithmetic –they call it mathematics these days. All very boring. But we also drew pictures and made models out of bits of wood. (unenthusiastically ) That was OK. Then there was physical training –jumping up and down, running round, catching a ball, nothing terribly exciting.


Page 68

T

And other subjects? Science, for instance.

G

Science? No, but we had a nature table, and I was in charge of it for a while. (a bit excited ) Oh, the nature table… We brought in things to display -grasses, flowers, seeds, horrible little animals like snails, or fish in jars. Great fun it was….

T

Then at 11 you changed schools….

G

Yes, well, I was nearly 12 and my third sister had just been born. I moved to the Big School in Cambridge till I was 14.

T

The Big School?

G

Yes, it had 5 classes with 40 in a class, even 50 in some. The whole class crowded in one room all day. Kids today have got it made with all the facilities they’ve got. Yeh, the Big School was far from the centre. We weren’t allowed to talk in class, well, only if the teacher asked a question. And we often got hit. But every week we had woodwork, and I loved it, but best of all was football.

T

You were in the school team, weren’t you?

G

Yeh, just after I was 13 I joined. That’s when we played with a real football for the first time. Outside lessons, we never had one: we used anything we could find to kick: tin cans, bits of old tyres…. Kids today have so much more, but simple things gave us pleasure.

T

And did you still walk to school?

G

well ...On my eleventh birthday I couldn’t wait to get home because I knew I was getting a bike. It wasn’t new, but it was my own! After all those years…..

T

But, could you ride a bike at all?

G

Well … My cousin John had taught me earlier or…was it my dad, I can’t recall….


Page 69

T

So, Graham, were schooldays the best days of your life?

G

No, it wasn’t completely a waste of time, but they weren’t the best days. They came much later.

T

Unfortunately, we’re not going to have time to get to that today, but thank you very much, Graham.

Test 3 – Writing ANSWER KEY

TEST 3: WRITING –

Task Achievement Task achieved at a very high level

Intention:

Entirely clear

Instructions : Completely followed Effect:

A very positive effect on the target reader

Outcome:

Sure to achieve a successful outcome

Content :

All relevant details included Some original ideas or presentation

Task well achieved

Intention:

Generally clear

Instructions : All important ones followed Effect :

A positive effect on the target reader

Outcome:

Sure to achieve a successful outcome

Content :

Most relevant details included Some original ideas or presentation

Task achieved, some gaps

Intention:

Clear in most areas

Instructions : All important ones followed Effect:

A generally positive effect on the reader

Outcome:

Likely to achieve a successful outcome

Content :

Many relevant details included

Task not achieved, many gaps

Intention:

Unclear in some areas

Instructions : Some key instructions not followed Effect:

The reader may be confused

Outcome:

Unlikely to achieve a successful outcome

Content :

Some important details left out Some irrelevant information

Task entirely unachieved

Intention:

Very unclear

Instructions : Most / all not followed Effect:

Very negative

Outcome:

Will not achieve a successful outcome

Content :

Omission, irrelevance

Task unattempted / partially attempted

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Page 67

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Structure:

Clear

Purpose:

Clear

Information:

Well organised

Range:

Wide

Cohesive

Devices:

Used to link

Skilled use

Structure:

Adequate

Purpose:

Mostly clear.

Information:

Some confusion Cohesive

Devices:

Adequate

Reference:

Limited use

Structure:

Muddled

Purpose:

Unclear.

Information:

Very confused

Errors:

Very few

Range:

Adequate

Minimal

Reference:

Simple / none

Register :

Range of registers

Style:

Usually

appropriate to genre

Errors:

Some but do

not significantly impede

Register :

Limited exponents

but awareness of register is

meaning

shown

Range:

Narrow

Style:

Inappropriate to

genre

Cohesive

Devices:

Appropriate to

genre

naturally

Reference:

Style:

Errors:

Many

Register :

Minimal

Not enough language to make an

Not enough language to

Not enough language to make

assessment.

make an assessment.

an assessment.


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Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to ask you for some information about Alicante. First of all I would like some general information about the city and the area around it; for example some information about local travel and the cost. Are there other towns nearby which are worth visiting? I would also like to know if there are any special events or festivals happening during the time I am in Alicante. Could you please give me details of the venues, the prices and when they take place. I am coming to Alicante with a friend and we both enjoy sports activities such as windsurfing, climbing and walking. I would be grateful if you could send me information about the opportunities for taking part in these activities. Are there local beaches which do not have many tourists? If so please send me details. We both also like live music so a guide to local clubs and discos would be appreciated. Thank you for your help. Yours sincerely,

Approaching the European Union? – Life in Central & Eastern Europe Today Walking in the centre of Budapest, capital city of Hungary, one of the new members of the EU you can see the colourful mixture of poverty and richness, heavy burdens and mixed blessings of a partly Asian, partly European, partly Stalinist tradition. Hungary – similarly to many others in the area - today is a changing country. After forty years of a Soviet type economic structure followed by the radical changes towards a modern economy, they all have to go through difficult phases. But the most difficult change seems to be the way of thinking. Generations had been brought up without the real experience of democracy, the possibility of thinking speaking or acting freely, without the slightest possibility of changing their own lives or fulfilling their dreams. Even travelling to Western countries was very limited.


Page 70

Dear Councilor, I am writing on behalf of the local residents’ committee to express some of our views regarding the proposed new shopping centre in our area. I have listed the advantages and disadvantages we feel are important. As for the positive side of the project the development will bring new jobs into the area and this will be a good thing for local people. The shopping centre will also provide a good service for the local community. Another advantage is that there will be opportunities for some small local businesses to rent space in the new centre. On the other hand there will be a lot of disruption during building including a lot of heavy construction traffic on the local roads. We wish to know if new roads will be built as part of the project. Another issue we have is the effect on the local environment. We live in a quiet part of the countryside and we are concerned that the new development will spoil the beautiful countryside around us. I hope we will have the opportunity to meet to discuss these issues in the near future. I look forward to hearing from you. Yours sincerely, Chairperson Local Residents’ Committee

The place I would most like to visit is The USA. There are several reasons for this but the most important for me is music. I love all kinds of music and The USA has everything. I would not spend time looking at famous buildings, but I would do a musical tour of Louisiana in the Deep South., because I am fascinated by the different cultural influences that American music incorporates. First of all I’d go to New Orleans, because this amazing city has traditional jazz and blues influenced by African Americans. After that I’d visit other parts of Louisiana, where there is Cajun, Creole and Zydeco music influenced by the French settlers and as well as many other styles. I would visit as many places as possible, and make a photographic record of all the musicians I had seen and publish it on the web for people to see. Most live music is at night and during the day I would find out as much as I could about the local music scene and where the music originally came from. I think many people would find my photos and notes interesting so I wish I could

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Test 4 – Grammar & Vocabulary ANSWER KEY


Centre

Candidate Code

Code

1 1. Evenings in the mountains

2. are likely to be

3. colder than you think,

considerably

4. so bring plenty of warm 5. and waterproof clothes.

6. Ski resorts tend to have

7. with restaurants, bars

8. As the majority of hotels

an active nightlife

and dance clubs.

9. have pools or hot tubs,

10. be sure to bring

your bathing suit.

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11. When purchasing ski clothes

such as gloves,

12. consult your local ski shop.

13. Tell them

14. where you are going

15. and they'll suggest

16. appropriate gear.

17. Please, do not wear 18. valuable jewellery or watches 19. on the slopes

13. as they could

20. get damaged or lost.

There are 20 points for the dictation. Example

6. Ski resorts tend to have

an active nightlife

You must spell all these

It is not important if

words correctly to get

you get these words

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Centre

Candidate Code

Code

Questions 1-10

A

B

C

D

B

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

A

B

C

D

Questions 11-20 Example

the Do not write here

11

16

more / rather 12

to 17

as 13

since / for / because / as 18

it 14

at / many 19

when / that 15

the 20


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Test 6 – Speaking Marking schemes

Overall impression

5

Good ability to maintain accurate, fluent and natural conversation. Suitable range of grammar, lexis and cohesive devices to complete tasks. Some ability with complex language. Pronunciation is natural with appropriate intonation, though occasionally problematic.

4

3

Smooth use of language. Occasional small difficulties or gaps that do not severely impede understanding. A number of errors , including slips in simple sentences. Pronunciation may place some small strain on the listener. Conversation is maintained in a generally natural and appropriate manner.

2

1

0

Noticeable hesitation. Jumpiness. Insufficient grammar, lexis and cohesive devices to do the tasks. Frequent errors in simple sentences. Avoidance of complex structures or lexis. Significant pronunciation difficulties. Very hard to understand. Clearly significantly below level criteria

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Speaking Mark Scheme – Assess or’s copy - Level B2 Range and Accuracy

5

Fluency and Coherence

Wide range of grammar, lexis and cohesive devices used to complete the tasks, circumlocution only occasionally necessary. Comfortable with more complex structures and lexis although errors still occur.

Maintains a smooth flow of language with hesitation mainly to formulate ideas, not language. Links ideas into clear coherent discourse with little or no jumpiness even in extended contributions.

Sufficient range of grammar, lexis and cohesive devices to adequately complete the tasks although circumlocution may be necessary. Few errors in simple sentences. Errors when attempting more complex structures and lexis do not generally hinder communication.

Some hesitation while formulating language, but can effectively maintain flow of speech. Can link ideas into clear, coherent discourse although with noticeable jumpiness especially in extended contributions.

Range of grammar, lexis and cohesive devices insufficient to adequately complete the tasks. Repeated errors even in simple sentences.

Frequent hesitation and inability to link ideas coherently causes great strain on the listener.

Pronunciation

Although there may still be an evident foreign accent, pronunciation is natural and places little strain on the listener. The candidate often utilises features of connected speech and English intonation patterns.

Communication Strategies

Initiates maintains and ends turns. Uses repair strategies (clarification, circumlocution) where necessary. Uses appropriate register and intonation.

4

3

Pronunciation is clearly intelligible in spite of evident foreign accent and occasional mispronunciations putting some strain on the listener.

T e s t 6 – S p e a k i n g M a r k i n g s c h e m e s

Initiates maintains and ends turns satisfactorily although not always smoothly. Evidence of ability to use repair strategies (clarification, circumlocution) although not always applied. Uses appropriate register.

2 1

0

Mispronunciations and inability to produce certain sounds frequently impedes communication of the message.

Insufficient language for assessment

Generally, fails to initiate maintain and end turns satisfactorily. Does not use repair strategies (clarification, circumlocution). Uses inappropriate register. P a g e 7 9

Task One Dear Sir or Madam, I am writing to ask you for some information about Alicante. First of all I would like some general information abou t the city and the area around it; for example some information about local travel and the cost. Are there other towns nearby which are worth visiting? I would also like to know if there are any special events or festivals happening during the time I am in Alicante. Could you please give me details of the venues, the prices and when they take place. I am coming to Alicante with a friend and we both enjoy sports activities such as windsurfing, climbing and walking. I would be grateful if you could send me information about the opportunities for taking part in these activities. Are there local beaches which do not have many tourists? If so please send me details. We both also like live music so a guide to local clubs and discos would be appreciated. Thank you for your help. Yours sincerely, 168 words

Task Two 1. An Article Approaching the European Union? – Life in Central & Eastern Europe Today

Walking in the centre of Budapest, capital city of Hungary, one of the new members of the EU you can see the colourful mixture of poverty and richness, heavy burdens and mixed blessings of a partly Asian, partly European, partly Stalinist tradition. Hungary – similarly to many others in the area - today is a changing country. After forty years of a Soviet type economic structure followed by the radical changes towards a modern economy, they all have to go through difficult phases. But the most difficult change seems to be the way of thinking. Generations had been brought up without the real experience of democracy, the possibility of thinking

speaking or acting freely, without the slightest possibility of changing their own lives or fulfilling their dreams. Even travelling to Western countries was very limited. On the other hand the rich European cultural tradition of these countries is also a strong component that helps them to catch up with the luckier parts of the continent. Is there a hope for today’s generation to enjoy the blessings of a Common Europe? Hopefully yes. But no doubt there is a long road ahead. 190 words 2. A report Dear Councilor,

I am writing on behalf of the local residents’ committee to express some of our views regarding the proposed new shopping centre in our area. I have listed the advantages and disadvantages we feel are important. As for the positive side of the project the development will bring new jobs into the area and this will be a good thing for local people. The shopping centre will also provide a good service for the local community. Another advantage is that there will be opportunities for some small local businesses to rent space in the new centre. On the other hand there will be a lot of disruption during building including a lot of heavy construction traffic on the local roads. We wish to know if new roads will be built as part of the project. Another issue we have is the effect on the local environment. We live in a quiet part of the countryside and we are concerned that the new development will spoil the beautiful countryside around us. I hope we will have the opportunity to meet to discuss these issues in the near future.

I look forward to hearing from you. Yours sincerely,

Chairperson Local Residents’ Committee 202 words 3. A composition

Euro Exam Angol - Practice Test B2 - Set1

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