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FCE STUDENTS
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1. Spotlight Paper 1 (Use of English)

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Test your knowledge of grammar and vocabulary.

Use of English
1.1 Part 1 Multiple Choice Cloze
Explanation:
Transcript
Here's an example Multiple Choice Cloze exercise. As you can see, the task consists of a short text with 8
gaps or 9 gaps if we include the example at the beginning. Each gap equals one word and the candidate has
to complete each gap by selecting the correct word from a choice of 4; A, B, C or D. Here we have the
choices listed, 1 to 8. If we look at the example, we can see a gap marked (0) and above the text we can see
the correct choice for (0) is marked as 'C' or 'branch', as in 'branch of history'.
Let's turn to the language skills you'll need to work on during your preparation. The main focus in the
Multiple Choice Cloze task is vocabulary. Various aspects of vocabulary are likely to be tested but there are
some key areas you should try to focus on during your preparation. In general, you should try to focus on
learning 'chunks' of vocabulary, that means set expressions rather than simply individual words.
 Phrasal verbs
Phrasal verbs are an example of a ‘chunk’ - a verb and a preposition such as 'settle down' as in 'to get
married and settle down'. Phrasal verbs are sometimes tested and you'll find either the verb or the
preposition of a phrasal verb gapped.
 Idiomatic expressions
Other common idiomatic phrases might appear in the text with one of the words gapped, such as
'under the weather' with either 'under' or 'weather' gapped.
 Collocations
Collocations, or words that go together regularly appear in the Multiple Choice Cloze. Phrases like
'to reach a decision' are fixed. We don't say 'to achieve' or 'attain a decision'. Although we do say
'arrive at a decision', that's another collocation, there's no 'at' after the gap so the correct answer is
'reach'.
Synonyms
In addition to chunks you need to be aware of common synonyms and how words work in one
context but not another. For example, 'fee', 'price', 'cost' and 'charge' have a similar meaning but only
one fits here correctly.
 Linking word
Occasionally a linking word or what is sometimes called a discourse marker will be the gapped word
such as in this example.

Exam tips
Let's finish with some exam tips.
You should always read the complete text before attemting to answer any questions. Having a big picture or
global understanding of the text will help you make decisions later.
A key tactic in this exercise is to look for clues around each gap. We've already noted the importance of
learning set expressions and the word before or sometimes after the gap will often be part of a set phrase and
will help you decide which of the choice of four words is the correct one. If you find it difficult to make a
choice eliminate those you know are wrong and if necessary make a guess as to the correct answer. You
never know, you might be lucky.
That's the end of this video. If you’d like further practice in the new FCE exam visit the Flo-Joe website at
www.flo-joe.co.uk.
Practice
Practice Multiple Choice Cloze exercises using the structures listed above:
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Part 1 Multiple Choice Cloze

Ready to try some practice tests? Try these:
Part 1 Multiple Choice Cloze
Synonyms
You should be able to identify the correct word from a selection of similar words that matches a
particular context or goes with another word:

Complete each sentence by choosing the best word.

work job career employment
1. Would you like to meet for a coffee after ..........?
2. He's decided to take a part-time ..........
3. The number of people in full-time .......... has risen this month.
4. If you commit a crime it will destroy your .......... .

5. I've taken on a new .......... with a different company.

6. The latest .......... figures are due to be released today.
7. I've got a meeting with a .......... advisor this afternoon.
8. Some people welcome the chance to do voluntary .......... in order to gain experience.

journey trip tour ride

5. How was the bus .......... to work today?
6. She's going on a six-week .......... of Australia.
7. You won't see her until she's back from her skiing ..........
8. Can I go for a .......... on your bike?

9. Our daughter is going on a school ........ to a local museum today.

10. The ........ operator we booked our holiday with is in financial difficulties.
11. The roads were poor and it was a very bumpy ........
12. The return .......... took longer because of road works.

quiz exam test trial

9. If you work hard you should pass the FCE .......... .
10. Today our teacher is giving us a short grammar .......... .
11. At the end of the lesson she'll give us a fun .......... .
12. I'm going to work for them for a .......... period.

Collocations
You will need to be able to identify common collocations, that is words that go together. Choose the answer
A, B, C or D that completes each sentence.

1 He tried to .......... her some advice but she wouldn't listen.

A give
B suggest
C recommend
D take

2 Have you .......... out the invitations to the party yet?

A posted
B sent
C dispatched
D delivered

3 I wonder if you could .......... me a favour and carry this box for me.
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A make
B do
D give
E hold

4 Could you just stand there quietly without .......... a sound?

A creating
B doing
C causing
D making

5 She's slowly getting .......... after the accident.

A better
B over
C well
D improved

6 Your father looks really different in this picture but I can .......... it's him.
A know
B identify
C tell
D choose

7 The recipe for vegetable soup has a number of different .......... .

A parts
B components
C ingredients
D elements

8 Guess who I .......... into in the supermarket today?

A knocked
B bumped
C hit
D banged

Over to you
Get these collocations into your active vocabulary by using them in sentences of your own.
Answer the following questions:
a) When was the last time you gave someone some advice?
b) Have you ever been in a situation where you couldn't make a sound?
c) Have you bumped into an old friend lately?

1.1.3 Phrasal Verbs

Phrasal verbs are frequently tested in Part 1 of this paper. You need to look out for missing verbs or
prepositions/particles. Choose the answer A, B or C that completes each sentence.

1 You'll be able to ....... that book out of the library.

A bring
A take
C move
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2 We have to ....... ahead if we want the party to be a success.

A plan
B go
C push

3 She didn't say goodbye before she ....... off. She must be upset about something.
A switched
B rang
C cut

4 Although it was a wonderful job offer he decided to ....... it down in the end.
A pass
B take
C turn

5 When I saw his awful haircut I burst ....... laughing.

A out
B into
C in

6 As time goes ....... we do more damage to the environment.

A beyond
B forward
C by

7 She has decided to take ....... a new hobby.

A over
B up
C on

8 Could you repeat that? I couldn't quite make ....... what you were saying.
A out
B up
C over
Over to you
If you keep a notebook of new vocabulary one idea for recording phrasal verbs is to categorize them by
verbs. Create a section for a particular verb such as 'make' and list all the phrasal verbs including this word
along with a sentence demonstrating the meaning. This will be particulalry useful with phrasal verbs that
have more than one meaning.

1.1.4 Phrases/Expressions
You will need to be able to identify common collocations, that is words that go together. For example:
'on no account'
'hold your breath'

There are many set expressions that you are likely to be tested on in this section. Choose the answer A,
B, C or D that completes each sentence.

1 After a great deal of discussion we were all .......... agreement that we should have a party.
A for
B at
C on
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D in

2 Thanks for telling me about that website. I'll keep it .......... mind.
A in
B on
C to
D about

3 What do you do ....... a living? I'm a computer programmer.

A as
B by
C for
D of

4 Our train's been cancelled. We'll have to listen out ....... an announcement.
A for
B to
C about
D on

5 She isn't going to university next year. She's had a change of ........ .
A attitude
B thoughts
C heart
D tune

6 There are lots of different sweets to choose from. Just ....... your pick.
A make
B take
C do
D select

7 If you want to buy that motorbike you'll have to take .......... a loan to do it.
A down
B on
C up
D out

8 The success of the school play was thanks .......... all the hard work involved.
A to
B for
C in
D of

5) Linking Words
Make sure you know the difference between the common linking words used in English. Choose
the answer A, B or C that completes each sentence.

1 Studying abroad is a great opportunity. .......... the other hand, you might find yourself getting homesick.
A By
B In
C On
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2 He did hardly any work before the exam. .........., he managed to pass.
A Although
B Nevertheless
C Despite

3 Life in a big city is more stressful than the country. .......... it can also be expensive.
A Further
B Addition
C Moreover

4 Some people have said the play is boring. .......... the contrary, I found it absolutely fascinating
A On
B In
C At

5 The law regarding dangerous driving has been changed. As a/an .......... ,more people are going to prison.
A effect
B result
C outcome

6 The company is making a number of changes. In other .......... it seems that there are going to be a number
of job losses.
A words
B ways
C sayings

7 She bumped into her ex-boyfriend in the street, .......... all her efforts to avoid him.
A through
B spite
C despite

8 The team played well in the first half. In .........., during the second half they completely lost control of the
game.
A contrary
B contrast
C context

Dos and don'ts

Look at the text before and after the gap. Don't leave the answer sheet blank for any question. If you don't
know the correct answer you should always make a guess.
How to improve
Record phrases, not just individual words, in your vocabulary notebook. Get a new collocation and phrasal
verb expression every day from our FREE Word Bank exercise.
Try a test.
Try an online Reading and Use of English Part 1 (Multiple Choice Cloze) test in the 'Practice Tests' area.
 7

1.2 Part 2 Open Cloze

Transcript
Today we’re looking at Part 2 of the Reading and Use of English Paper - the Open Cloze task. If we turn to
the FCE handbook you can see the Open Cloze consists of a short text with 8 gaps - 9 gaps including the
example at the beginning. Each gap equals one word and the candidate has to complete each gap by
identifying the missing word. If we look at the example we can see a gap marked (0) and above the text we
can see the correct answer for (0) is marked ‘AS’ - that's 'as', as in ‘i worked as a motorbike stunt rider’.
The main focus in the Open Cloze is grammar and certain parts of speech are often tested. Let’s have a look
at some of them.
 Pronouns
Pronouns will often be gapped. In particular look out for reflexive pronouns such as 'ourselves',
'yourself' etc. and relative pronouns - 'who', 'where', 'when' etc. Which pronouns are missing in these
two sentences? The answers will appear in a couple of seconds.
 Articles and quantifiers
Articles and quantifiers like 'much', 'more', 'some', 'many' etc. will sometimes be required. Which
words are missing in these two sentences?
 Modal verbs
Modal verbs, like 'will', 'would', 'must', 'can' etc and the auxiliary verbs 'be', 'do', and 'have' are often
tested. Which verbs are missing in these sentences?
 Conjunctions
Conjunctions like 'although', 'yet', 'still' or 'because' will sometimes be gapped. Which conjunction is
missing here?
 Prepositions
Prepositions, especially those in set expressions like 'on the contrary' or 'in the meantime' will
sometimes be gapped. Which preposition is missing here?

Exam tips
Here are some tips for this part of the exam. Make sure you read the complete text first before attempting to
answer any questions. Having an overview of the content will sometimes help you to identify missing
words.
Pay attention to the clauses and words around each gap as these will usually help you identify which part of
speech is missing - a verb, a conjunction, a pronoun for example.
That’s the end of this video. If you’d like further practice in the new FCE exam visit the Flo-Joe website at
www.flo-joe.co.uk.
Practice
Practice Open Cloze exercises using the structures listed above:
 Part 1 Open Cloze
Ready to try some practice tests? Try these:
 Part 1 Open Cloze

1.2.1 Parts of Speech

The missing word is often (but not always) one of the parts of speech that are listed in the following
exercise.

Match the underlined word in bold on the left with the correct part of speech on the right.
1 This is the doctor who cured my illness. auxiliary verb

2 She's suffering from a bad cold at the moment modal verb

3 I haven't seen him for ages. other

4 We could go on a picnic or we could stay indoors. preposition

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5 The house was built ten years ago. article

6 Books should not be removed from the library. relative pronoun

7 That's the man I was telling you about. pronoun

8 They didn't play well enough to win. conjunction

1.2.2 Pronouns
Words like 'you', 'her', 'which' etc. are often the missing word.

2a Complete the following text by adding one word in each gap. The word is always a personal
pronoun.
Paul and Anne decided to decorate the living room (a) ............ as they thought
(b) ............... would be cheaper (c)............... that way. Paul went up the ladder
on (d).............. own to paint the ceiling, even though Anne told (e)................ to
wait till (f)............... could help (g)............... by holding the ladder. Unfortunately, lost
(h) ................ balance and the paint went all over Anne and (i) ................. very
expensive new dress.

2b The following sentences contain ONE missing relative pronoun. Write the missing word in the
space.
1. I work for a company ............. makes computers.
2. Thanks for your letter, ... arrived last week.
3. To ... it may concern.
4. The school ... I studied is in the local newspaper.
5. Who is that woman ... husband we met last week?
6. That man we met at the party. Do you know ... I mean?
7. We live in Madrid, ... is one of my favourite cities.
8. Ten students went in for the exam, none of ... failed.

1.2.3 Articles and Quantifiers

Articles, 'a', 'the' and quantifiers like, 'much', 'many', 'all', 'enough' etc. are often required. Choose
the answer A, B, or C that completes each sentence.
1 The shop was very quiet and ............. people were waiting to be served.
A little
B few
C none

2 I haven't got ............. plans for the weekend if you'd like to go out somewhere.
A some
B no
c any

3 Was there ............. traffic on the roads this evening?

A much
B many
C few

4 I've tried to phone several shops but ............. of them were open.
A no
 9

B none
C any

5 Have you got ............. money to buy a new car?

A many
B enough
C much

6 I asked Sally and Kim but ... of them wanted to go out.

A none
B either
C neither

7 He's exercising a lot ............. than he used to.

A less
B fewer
C least

8 The doctor had two patients, ............. of whom were complaining of upset stomachs.
A both
B either
C all

1.2.4 Modal/Auxuliary Verbs

Verbs like 'must', 'can', 'be' and other modal or auxiliary verbs are often the missing word. The
following sentences contain a missing verb. Add the missing word in the space provided.
1. The plan has .......... found to have several weaknesses.
2. We .......... have been living here for 3 years by the summer.
3. I really .......... like going out at weekends. It's so nice to forget about work.
4. My grandfather .......... always take me for a ride in his taxi when he visited.
5. When I got home I realised I .......... left my keys at work.
6. I think you .......... to get you hair cut if you're looking for a new job.
7. To .......... taken three times a day before meals.
8. You .......... have known he'd be late. He never turns up on time for anything.

1.2.5 Conjunctions
Conjunctions (linking words) like 'but', 'and', 'yet' etc. will sometimes be the word you are looking
for. The following sentences contain a missing conjunction. Add the missing word.
1. ............. he felt quite ill he still went to work.
2. There was heavy traffic in the city today ............. of an accident.
3. You could come round to our house ............. we could meet at the cinema.
4. Candidates are not permitted to leave the room ............. they are accompanied by a member of staff.
5. You can have the job ............. you agree to work on Saturdays.
6. There will be strong winds in the north. ... , the south will remain warm and sunny.
7. He came top of his group ............. starting the course late.
8. ... you may be aware, I intend to retire at the end of the year.

1.2.6 Prepositions/Phrasal Verbs

Prepositions ('in', 'at', 'on' etc.) will very often be the missing word. Choose the answer A, B, C or D
that completes each sentence.
1 The surgeon is operating ............. the patient now.
A at
B to
 10

C on
D in

2 There's no possibility ............. us finishing the project by the weekend.

A in
B with
C for
D of

3 Have you got any advice ............. how to go about buying a new car?
A at
B on
C in
D for

4 How much have you saved ............. for your holiday?

A up
B in
C on
D about

5 The police are looking ............. the recent series of robberies in

the area.
A into
B on
C around
D through

6 I sympathise ............. your problem but I'm afraid there's nothing

I can do to help.
A in
B for
C with
D to

7 Would you be kind enough to fill ............. this application form, please.
A over
B with
C in
D up

8 He really takes ............. his father. They're alike in so many ways.

A on
B after
C in
D over

1.2.7 Sentence Level Practice

Most of the categories covered in the previous exercises are tested below along with words that do not
fit into these groups. The following sentences contain a missing word. Write in the missing word.

1. We would have called you if we ............. known you were in.

2. I can't put ............. with this noise anymore. I'm going to complain.
 11

3. Wait ............. minute. I'll see if I've got his address.

4. He failed his exam, ............. was a real surprise.
5. There have been many ............. refugees crossing the border during the last two days.
6. Manchester United won the game in ............. of the fact that they played with only 9 players.
7. This product should ............. consumed within 3 days.
8. It was ............. cold today we decided to stay at home.

1.3 Part 3 Word Formation

Transcript
In this video we’re looking at Part 3 of the Reading and Use of English Paper - Word Formation. Here’s an
example Word Formation task which appears in the FCE handbook - which you can download from the
Cambridge English website. The task consists of a short text with 8 gaps - with an additional gap as the
example at the beginning. The candidate has to complete each gap with the correct form of the stem word
that appears in CAPITALS at the end of the line. In the example, the stem word is 'common' and the correct
form is shown as 'commonly'.
So, Part 3 tests your knowledge of the way words are formed in English, including the use of prefixes and
suffixes, and any spelling rules associated with these changes. Let's try some examples.
 Nouns from verbs
The stem - given- word could be a verb and the required word to fill the gap might be a noun. Nouns
are often formed with a suffix such as 'ment', 'ion', 'ness', 'ence' ect. What are the noun forms of these
verbs? The answers will appear in a few seconds.
 Adjectives from nouns
The required word will often be an adjective and you'll sometimes need to identify the correct suffix,
for example, 'like', 'ous', 'ful'. What are the adjective forms of these nouns?
 Forming opposites
We often use prefixes to create the opposite form of adjectives. Some common prefixes include 'im',
'in', 'un' , 'dis'. What are the opposites of these adjectives?

Exam tips
Here are some tips for this part of the exam. As always, read the complete text first to get a global
understanding of the content. Examine the sentence structure to identify the part of speech required, such as
a noun, verb, adjective or adverb. Use your understanding of the context to decide if the missing word is
positive or negative. That’s the end of this video. If you’d like further practice in the new FCE exam visit the
Flo-Joe website at www.flo-joe.co.uk.
Practice
Practice Word Formation exercises using the structures listed above:
 Part 3 Word Formation
Ready to try some practice tests? Try these:
 Part 3 Word Formation

1.3.1 Forming nouns form verbs

This exercise focuses on people and their jobs using the most common suffixes. Use the word in bold to
form the noun which refers to the person who does that job.

1. A person who acts for a living is called an .......... .

2. A ..... is someone who earns money from writing music.
3. She didn't become famous as a ..... until her 17th novel was published.
4. In Part 5 of the FCE Exam your speaking ability will be assessed by the ..... .
5. At the end of the interview the ..... asked if he could be shown around the company.
6. The waiter asked the ..... if she would help him deal with a difficult customer.
7. An ..... is someone who will be able to go through your accounts and work out how much money you
have.
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8. ..... to the castle are expected to come during visiting times only.

1.3.2 Forming other nouns

This exercise looks at forming nouns from verbs, nouns and adjectives by using suffixes. Type the
correct form of the word in the box.

1. My teacher says there has been a big (IMPROVE) .......... in my English lately.
2. The recipe says you only need to add two (SPOON) .......... of salt.
3. Why did you do that? I thought you had more (INTELLIGENT) .......... than that.

4. The singer gave a briliant (PERFORM) .......... on stage yesterday.

5. Have you seen her magazine (COLLECT) ..........? She must have over 200 editions.
6. On hearing the news, everyone was overcome with a feeling of (SAD) .......... .
7. When you take the FCE Speaking paper you will be given marks for your (ACCURATE) .......... and also
on how fluent you are.
8. She has the (ABLE) .......... to pass the exam first time round providing she works hard.

1.3.3 Forming opposite meanings

This exercise focuses on the common prefixes and suffixes used to form opposite words. Choose the
correct prefix or suffix to form the opposite of the word in CAPITALS.

in- im- il- un- -less dis- ir-

1 When he became a teenager he wanted to be more (DEPENDENT) from his parents.
2 It was really (HONEST) of you to take that money without asking.
3 If you hadn't been so (CARE) with that book you'd still have it now.
4 My broken leg means I'll be (ABLE) to go on holiday with you.
5 In many countries it is (LEGAL) to smoke cigarettes under the age of 16.
6 He waited (PATIENTLY) for the train to arrive at the station.
7 The teacher told me it was (RESPONSIBLE) of me to set off the fire alarm.

1.3.4 Forming verbs

This exercise looks at some common suffixes used in creating verbs. Choose from one of the endings to
create a verb that completes the sentence. Pay attention to tenses and spelling!

1. He told her that he (SYMPATHY) .......... with her problem but couldn't do anything to help.
-en
-ify
-ize

2. My belt feels a bit tight after that huge lunch. I think I'll have to (LOOSE) .......... it a little.
-en
 13

-ify
-ize

3. She was severely (WEAK) .......... by the long illness she had.
-en
-ify
-ize

4. There are many different ways to (CLASS) .......... areas of English Grammar.
-en
-ify
-ize

5. If you're really sorry for what you said you won't mind (APOLOGY)..........
-en
-ify
-ize

6. There's no need to (CRITIC) .......... my work. I'm trying as hard as I can.

-en
-ify
-ize

7. The pain in his back (LESS) .......... as soon as he took the medication.
-en
-ify
-ize

8. Everybody was (HORROR) .......... by the news of the earthquake.

-en
-ify
-ize

1.3.5 Forming adjectives and adverbs

This exercise looks at the most common adjective and adverb endings. Write the correct form of the
adjective or adverb of the word in CAPITALS. For questions 5-8 you will need to make TWO changes
to the stem word.

1. Be sure to contact him if you need advice. He's a very (HELP) .......... person.
2. It was a really (ENJOY) .......... party. Thanks for inviting me.
3. He has just taken out a (MONTH) .......... subscription to the magazine.
4. She smiled (HAPPY) .......... when they offered her the new job.
5. (HOPE) .......... we'll have enough money saved to get married next year. (2 changes required)
6. In order for the medicine to work (EFFECT) .......... you must take the correct amount. (2 changes
required)
7. Although our teacher is very strict in class, she is (FRIEND) .......... than you would expect. (2 changes
required)
8. What a beautiful vase! That's the (LOVE) .......... present I've ever had. (2 changes required)

1.3.6 Difficult spellings

This exercise focuses on tricky spelling changes. Choose from A or B the word with the correct
spelling to complete the sentence.
 14

1 He tried to fix his machine but it was (POSSIBLE) ..........

impossible
inpossible

2 You don't need to wear a suit to the party. You can look (FORMAL) .......... if you wish.
informal
imformal

3 She won the bicycle race (EASY) .......... .

easyly
easily

4 The weather forecast says it's going to be (RAIN) .......... today.

rainy
rainny

5 The body was discovered (LIE) .......... on the floor.

lieing
lying

6 He told her that he was (TRUE) .......... in love with her.

truely
truly

7 She was filled with (HAPPY) .......... when she heard the good news.
happiness
happyness

8 He was the (BIG) .......... in the class.

biggest
bigest

Dos and don'ts

Remember that you may have to make two changes to the stem word.
Example: definite - (in)definite(ly).
Don't leave the answer sheet blank for any question. If you don't know the correct answer you should always
make a guess.
How to improve
When you make a note of new words try to record all its different forms (nouns, verbs, adjectives and
adverbs).
Try a test
Try an online Reading and Use of English Part 3 (Word Formation) test in the 'Practice Tests' area.
 15

1.4 Part 4 Key Word Transformations

Transcript
My name’s Peter Travis from Flo-Joe and in this video we’re looking at Part 4 of the Reading and Use of
English Paper - Key Word Transformation. Here’s an example Key Word Transformation task from the FCE
handbook - which you can download from the Cambridge English website. The task contains 6 questions.
Each question consists of a lead-in sentence and a second gapped sentence. The gapped sentence must be
completed using between 2 and 5 words. The word in capitals must be used and the form of the word cannot
change. The example here contains the key word DRIVEN and as we can see the answer contains this word
in the same form and with the maximum of 5 words used.
Part 4 tests your ability to paraphrase through your knowledge of grammar and vocabulary. A wide range of
language could be tested here. However, some patterns appear quite often. Let’s look at a few of them.

 Comparative/Superlative
Knowledge of structures like ‘so’/‘such’, ‘…er’/‘…est’ and ‘too’/‘enough’ are often tested in this
task. Here’s an example.
 Passive
You will sometimes be required to turn an active sentence into the passive in the Key Word
Transformation task. Here’s an example.
 Direct/Indirect Speech
You will sometimes have to turn direct into indirect speech or the other way round. For example.
 Conditionals
Your ability to use conditional forms will often be tested in this task, such as in this example.

Exam tips
Finally, let's look at some tips for the exam. Be sure to follow the instructions: use the key word given, don’t
change the form of this word and use between 2 and 5 words - no more. Remember that contractions count
as two words.
We’ve noted several patterns that tend to appear, such as passives or reported speech. Pay attention to any
new ones you come across during your preparation. This will help you to identify what’s required in each
question in the exam.
Try to learn these new patterns by personalising the two sentences. Rewrite each one using the same
structure so they describe something about you, your experience or feelings. Personalising in this way will
help you remember the structures.
That’s the end of this video. If you’d like further practice in the new FCE exam visit the Flo-Joe website at
www.flo-joe.co.uk.
Practice
Practice Key Word Transformation exercises using the structures listed above:
 Part 4 Key Word Transformation
Ready to try some practice tests? Try these:
 Part 4 Key Word Transformation

1.4.1 Comparative/Superlative
Structures like so/such .., er/as ... as or too/enough often appear in this exercise.
For Questions 1-8, complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence
using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between two and five words.

1. The food was so good we had to leave a tip.

SUCH
It ........................................... we had to leave a tip.

2. The computer was too expensive for me to buy.

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ENOUGH
I ........................................... money to buy the computer.

3. It's the most beautiful painting I've ever seen.

SEEN
I ............................................ beautiful painting.

4. This summer has been much cooler than last year.

COOL
Last summer .................................. this year.

5. I'm not as good at maths as you.

BETTER
You ......................................... me.

6. The course wasn't as easy as I'd expected.

MORE
The course ........................................ I'd expected.

7. This car isn't safe enough to drive.

DANGEROUS
This car ........................................ drive.

8. This exercise is easier than the last one.

HARD
This exercise ....................................... the last one.

1.4.2 Passive/Active
Changes from active to passive or passive to active are often required. For Questions 1-8, complete the
second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence using the word given. Do not
change the word given. You must use between two and five words.

1. The examiner tells candidates the regulations at the beginning of the exam.
TOLD
At the beginning of the exam candidates .................................... the regulations.

2. Did we send that letter to Mr Thomas?

WAS
Do you know if ........................................ to Mr Thomas?

3. We haven't arranged a date for the wedding yet.

BEEN
A date for the wedding .............................................. yet.

4. They will have given him the news by now.

TOLD
He .............................................. the news by now.

5. Experts estimate that most people now have access to the Internet.
IS
.................................................. most people now have access to the Internet.
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6. The garage on the corner usually repairs my car.

HAVE
I ................................................... by the garage on the corner.

7. Steve definitely didn't write that essay.

WRITTEN
That essay ..................................................... by Steve.

8. The police have cancelled the demonstration.

HAS
The demonstration ....................................................... by the police.

1.4.3 Direct and Indirect Speech

You are sometimes asked to transform a sentence from direct speech to indirect speech or from
indirect to direct speech. For Questions 1-8, complete the second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use
between two and five words.

1. 'What do you think of the college?'

ASKED
She ......................................... of the college.

2. 'I'll call you later tonight,' Keith promised.

WOULD
Keith promised that ................................................ night.

3. 'I didn't break the window,' said the boy.

DENIED
The boy ..................................................... the window

4. 'Why don't you come this evening?'

SUGGESTED
She ........................................................ that evening.

5. 'You look really tired,' he told her.

SAID
He ....................................................... really tired.

6. 'You must do your homework tonight.' the teacher said.

TOLD
The teacher ...................................................... my homework.

7. 'What's your name?' he asked.

KNOW
He ........................................................ what my name was.

8. 'I might be late for.' he told me.

INFORMED
He ........................................................ might be late.
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1.4.4 Auxiliary Verbs

You will often find questions that test your knowledge of auxiliary verbs like 'will', 'have', 'must' etc.
For Questions 1-8, complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence
using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between two and five words.

1. I went to the office then remembered it was my day off.

HAVE
I ............................................... to the office as it was my day off.

2. Perhaps we missed the correct turning.

MIGHT
We ............................................... the correct turning.

3. I'm afraid you can't smoke in here.

ALLOWED
You ............................................... in here.

4. They will expect you to wear a suit for the interview.

HAVE
You ................................................ a suit for the interview.

5. I'd see a doctor if I were you.

OUGHT
You .................................................. a doctor.

6. He couldn't swim until he was in his twenties.

ABLE
He ................................................. until he was in his twenties.

7. We got a table at the restaurant without a reservation.

NEED
We ................................................ book a table at the restaurant.

8. You were expected to answer all the questions on the exam paper.
ANSWERED
You ............................................... all the questions on the examination paper.

1.4.5 Conditionals
Any type of conditional sentence is likely to appear in this part of Paper 3.
For Questions 1-8, complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence
using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between two and five words.

1. I only told you because I thought you would be interested.

TOLD
I ................................................. you if I thought you weren't interested.

2. I won't organise the party unless you arrange the food.

LONG
I'll organise the party ....................................................... arrange the food.
 19

3. I think it would be a good idea to speak to the manager first.

WERE
If ......................................................... speak to the manager first.

4. If you do the washing up I'll make the coffee.

PROVIDED
I'll make the coffee .......................................................... the washing up.

5. Your tired because you keep staying up late.

WERE
If ............................................................. to bed earlier, you wouldn't be so tired.

6. You never enter competitions so you'll never win anything.

MIGHT
If you entered competions ...................................................... something.

7. The reason I haven't got much money is because they didn't give me promotion.
POOR
If they had given me promotion I ............................................................... now.

8. I've been so happy since I met you.

MIGHT
I ................................................................ so happy if I hadn't met you.

1.4.6 Unreal' Pasts

You will sometimes find sentences using 'If only ...', 'I wish ...', I'd rather ...' etc that require the use of
past tenses. For Questions 1-8, complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the
first sentence using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between two and five
words.

1. I'd love to know how John is getting on.

KNEW
I ................................................. how John was getting on.

2. You should take an umbrella with you.

BETTER
You ................................................ an umbrella with you.

3. I think taxes should be increased.

TIME
It .................................................. increased

4. He behaves like the President of the company.

THOUGH
He acts ....................................................... the President of the company.

5. I regret not inviting Cathy to the party.

ONLY
If ................................................... Cathy
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6. I'd prefer you to get home early tonight.

RATHER
I .................................................... home early tonight.

7. It's a pity the car is so expensive.

WISH
I .................................................... so expensive.

8. It will be better for you to come alone.

SOONER
I would ...................................................... on your own.

1.4.7 Verb Patterns

You knowledge of verb patterns such as gerund and infinitive is frequently tested. For Questions 1-8,
complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence using the word
given. Do not change the word given. You must use between two and five words.

1. It's really important that you pay the bill today.

REMEMBER
You must ................................................ the bill today.

2. I think it would be a good idea if you joined the beginner's class.

SUGGEST
I .................................................... the beginners class.
3. Meeting John in town was really surprising.
EXPECT
I ..................................................... John in town.
4. In the future she became a successful business woman.
WENT
She ................................................... a successful business woman.
5. I'll help you with your homework.
MIND
I ...................................................... you with your homework.
6. I hated driving on the left at first but now it's OK.
USED
I ....................................................... on the left now.
7. Don't bother to apply for the job.
POINT
There ......................................................... for the job.

8. Were you successful in passing the exam?

MANAGE
Did ............................................................ the exam?

1.4.8 Phrasal Verbs

Sentences requiring phrasal verbs often appear in this section. For Questions 1-8, complete the second
sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence using the word given. Do not change the
word given. You must use between two and five words.
 21

1. I'm really excited about the holiday.

LOOKING
I ............................................ the holiday.

2. The bomb exploded early this morning

OFF
The bomb ............................................ early this morning.

3. Why don't you start doing a sport?

TAKE
Have you thought about ..................................................... a sport?

4. His parents raised him very strictly.

UP
His parents ................................................... very strictly.

5. They've cancelled the wedding.

OFF
They have ....................................................... the wedding.

6. I don't think they should abolish military service.

AWAY
They shouldn't ....................................................... military service.

7. I've got to reduce the amount of sweets I eat.

DOWN
I must ............................................................. the number of sweets I eat.

8. My host family will let you stay with us.

UP
My host family will .......................................................... .

1.4.9 Practice
In the exam you may have to make TWO changes to the sentence, for example changing active to
passive AND using a phrasal verb.
For Questions 1-8, complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence
using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between two and five words.

1. (Passive + phrasal verb)

Thieves have burgled our house.
INTO
Our house .................................................

2. (Passive + change from adjective to noun)

Businesses are said to be worried about interest rates.
CONCERN
There ................................................ amongst businesses about interest rates.

3. (Reported speech + verb change)

'I don't share your views on capital punishment' he said.
 22

AGREE
He told me ................................................ my views on capital punishment.

4. (Passive to active + phrasal verb)

Loans must be repayed in full.
BACK
You ......................................................... all the money.

5. (Preposition x 2)
There have been more redundancies this year than before.
NUMBER
There has been a rise ........................................................... redundancies this year.

6. (Noun to verb + verb change)

I'm sorry but you must not smoke here.
FORBIDDEN
I'm afraid ..... here.

7. (Verb change + verb form)

I don't think it's a good idea to get married too early.
IN
I don't ............................................... too early.

8. (Verb change + verb form)

Did you manage to convince him?
IN
Did you .................................................... him?

Dos and don'ts

Remember to put the prompt word in your answer and do not to change this word. Don't write more than
five words (contractions, e.g. 'I'm', count as two words). Don't leave the answer sheet blank for any question.
If you don't know the correct answer you should always make a guess.
How to improve
If you get a sentence wrong, rewrite the correct structure in a way that has personal meaning.
Try a test
Try an online Reading and Use of English Part 4 (Key Word Transformations) test in the 'Practice Tests'
area.