Applying technique under exam conditions

These test judgement, not knowledge. Choose the response that protects the most marks.

1. 1

   You have eight minutes left in Reading & Use of English and Part 7 is untouched. What do you do?

   ARead the whole text carefully, then answer.BRead the gapped text's surrounding sentences and place your best guesses, leaving nothing blank.CSkip Part 7 and re-check Part 1.DAnswer only the gaps you are certain about.

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2. 2

   In Listening Part 4 you miss a question during the first play. Best response?

   AStop and reconstruct it immediately.BLeave it, stay with the recording, and recover it on the second play.CGuess and stop listening.DWrite two answers for the same item.

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3. 3

   Two Part 5 options both look defensible. What decides it?

   AThe one using words from the text.BThe one you thought of first.CThe one that the whole paragraph supports, not one sentence.DThe longer, more detailed option.

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4. 4

   You have written 310 words for a 220–260 word essay. Best action?

   ALeave it — more is better.BDelete your conclusion.CCut examples and repetition, keeping structure intact.DAdd a note apologising for the length.

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5. 5

   In Speaking Part 3 your partner is dominating. What is the strategic move?

   AWait politely until they finish.BInterrupt and take over.CUse a turn-taking phrase to bring the discussion to a decision together.DAddress the examiner instead.

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6. 6

   Part 4 transformation: you have the right idea in seven words. What now?

   AWrite it anyway.BRephrase using a contraction to reach six.CFind a shorter structure with the same key word.DLeave it blank.

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7. 7

   How should you use the 10 minutes of transfer/checking time in Listening?

   ARe-answer everything from memory.BCheck spelling and word count on Part 2 answers first.CRead the Part 4 questions again.DNothing — it's a break.

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8. 8

   Best use of the first two minutes of the Writing paper?

   AStart writing Part 1 immediately.BRead both tasks and plan the one you will answer second.CPlan Part 1 in note form: thesis, two body points, verdict.DCount words in the question.

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