Auxiliary Verbs and Modal Verbs

You are likely to be tested on your knowledge of the auxiliary verbs 'be', 'do' and
'have' and modal verbs like 'must', 'should' and 'need' in Parts 2 and 4 of
Reading and Use of English. In addition to the use of auxiliary verbs in the
construction of tenses you should also be aware of their use in the following:

Giving emphasis
Example:
I do like your hair!

Substitution
Example:
A: 'Do you think John will be there?'
B: 'He might be.'

Passives
Example:
Not to be consumed past its sell-by date.

Causative
Example:
I'd love to have a top hairdresser style my hair.

Auxiliary verbs >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
Knowing Peter, he'll ........ sitting at home with his feet up watching the TV now.

Answer: 'be'

Auxiliary verbs >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
They reserved a seat on the train but it was empty.
NEED
They .......... a seat on the train as it was empty.

Answer: 'needn't have reserved'

PART 2 QUIZ
1) The car isn't that fast but it ........ have a very luxurious interior.

2) I ........ just put the dish into the oven when I remembered that Sam wasn't
going to be here for dinner.

3) He worked really hard before the exam and at no time ........ he feel he would
fail.

4) I'd like to ........ someone come and look at our washing machine. It isn't
working properly.

5) She is said to have ........ born to a poor peasant family and was later
adopted by a wealthy industrialist.

6) By the time we get back home this holiday will ........ cost a fortune!

PART 4 QUIZ

1) I recommend seeing a doctor.
OUGHT
You .................... a doctor.

2) They looked so happy I'm sure they were enjoying the party.
MUST
They .................... enjoying themselves at the party judging by the looks on their
faces.

3) I've called a taxi so don't worry about giving me a lift.

NEED
There .................... give me a lift as I've called a taxi.

4) I expected you to phone if you were going to be late.

SHOULD
You .................... if you were going to be late.

5) If your tooth doesn't get any better I'm afraid it's a trip to the dentist.
WILL
If your tooth doesn't get any better I'm afraid you .................... go to the dentist.

6) John passed his exam without doing any revision.

NEED
John .................... do any revision.
Word Formation
You will be tested on your knowledge of word formation in Part 3 of Paper 1
Reading and Use of English. Try to keep records of new word forms as you
come across them, categorising them under 'nouns', 'verbs', 'adjectives' and
'adverbs'. Here are some common suffixes for the first three categories:

Nouns (people):
-ant, -ee, -er, -ian, -ist, -or

Nouns (general):
-al, -ance, -dom, -ence, -ful, -hood, -ing, -ion, -ism, -ity, -ment, -ness, -ship

Verbs
-en, -ify, -ize/-ise

Adjectives
-able, -ed, -ful, -ive, -ing, -less

Here are the common prefixes used to make negatives:

dis-, il-, im-, in-, ir-, non-, un-

You should also make a point of noting any new compound words you come
across.

Word Formation >> Part 3: Word Formation

Reminder: You will read a short text containing 8 gaps in total. For each gap
you have to use a given 'stem' word to make the correct form of the missing
word.

Example:
She gave me a very ........ look when I asked her to lend me some money. She
clearly had little intention of helping me out. (APPROVE)

Answer: 'disapproving'

QUIZ 1

1) He's been working as a petrol pump ........ to supplement his student grant.
(ATTEND)

2) I really need some ........ in terms of which of the financial packages available
is best for someone in my position. (GUIDE)

3) We need someone who is able to show a bit of ........ towards clients in

difficult, emotional situations. (SENSE)
4) The travellers are beginning to show signs of ........, having been waiting now
for two hours. (PATIENT)

5) As a feminist she was accused of showing very little ........ towards other
women in her position (SISTER)

6) There was a great deal of ........ over the most suitable location for the event
and no decision was reached. (AGREE)

QUIZ 2: adjectives
1) The game was very boring and ........, apart from the goal in the first half.
(EVENT)

2) She gave me a very ........ look when I told her I was 28. She obviously knew
I was much older! (BELIEVE)

3) Your performance in the examination was ........ and I'm sure your parents will
be very proud of you. (ADMIRE)

4) Please take care of my ring. My grandmother gave it to me and it's absolutely

........ (REPLACE)

5) He stood there completely ........, showing no sign of emotion. (EXPRESS)

6) He's very self-centred and can be so ........ at times. (THOUGHT)

QUIZ 3: COMPOUND WORDS

1) It was a very strange fruit that left an odd ........ in your mouth for the rest of
the day. (TASTE)

2) There are obvious advantages to living in London but the ........ is the amount
of heavy traffic. (SIDE)

3) He's got terrible ........ . I can't understand a word of this letter. (WRITE)

4) ........ vegetables produced in your own garden taste much better than the
stuff you get from the supermarket. (GROW)

5) He's been ........ ever since he injured his back. I don't think he's been out
once in the past month. (HOUSE)

6) It looks like we've ........ the number of people coming today. We've almost
run out of food. (ESTIMATE)
Cause
As/Because/Since ....., .....
..... as/because/since .....
Example:
As the game was cancelled we decided to go to the cinema.
We decided to go to the cinema since the game was cancelled.
On account of/Owing to ....., .....
....., on account of/owing to .....
On account of/Owing to the fact that ....., .....
....., on account of/owing to the fact that .....
Example:
Owing to the record number of subscribers to the course we have had to create
a second group.
The Government decided to introduce new legislation on account of the fact
that they were being heavily criticised in the newspapers.

Effect
..... Consequently/So/Therefore .....
..... and consequently/so/therefore .....
..... resulted in ...../..... led to .....
Example:
The driver was not paying attention to oncoming traffic. Consequently, he was
not prepared when the other driver pulled out.
..... so/such ..... that .....
Example:
The car had been so well repaired that you couldn't tell it had been in an
accident.
It was such a surprise that he almost fainted.

Cause and Effect Conjunctions >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
It was ........ a surprise to see him standing there that I called everyone out to
see.

Answer: 'such'

Cause and Effect Conjunctions >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.
Example:
Share prices have increased due to the fact that the company has done better
than expected.
CONSEQUENCE
.......... better than expected, share prices have increased.

Answer: 'As a consequence of doing'

QUIZ 2

1) We'll be taking on more workers this year ........ to the fact that we have seen
expansion in the market.

2) I therefore feel justified in requesting an increase in my overdraft facilities on
........ of my history of good financial management.

3) It was ........ a difficult exercise I had to ask a colleague for help.

4) I had to take a day off work yesterday ........ of personal problems at home.

5) She's been given promotion as a ........ of having passed her accountancy

exams.

part 4

1) Because they were union members several employees in the company were
sacked.
ACCOUNT
Several employees in the company were sacked .................... union members.

2) It was such a poor turnout on the first night that the organisers decided to
cancel any further shows.
DUE
The organisers decided to cancel any further shows .................... there had
been such a poor turnout on the first night.

3) Because waters are getting warmer some fish stocks are suffering.
RESULT
Some fish stocks are suffering .................... waters.

4) Because he was able to do first aid her life was saved.

CONSEQUENCE
Her life was saved .................... being able to do first aid.
5) To avoid causing confusion I think we need to explain the policy clearly.
AS
I think we need to explain the policy clearly so .................... confusion.

6) We all feel much healthier having kept to this new diet.
RESULTED
Keeping to this new diet has .................... feeling much healthier.

You will of course be tested on your ability to spell correctly in the Writing Paper
and several parts of Paper 1 Reading and Use of English. Here are some
typical categories of spelling mistake.

Double consonants
Example:
ammunition, surrender

Final 'e'
Example:
universe, fixture

ie/ei
Example:
receive, grieve

Homophones
Example:
tear x tier, steal x steel

Silent letters
Example:
dumb, campaign

QUIZ

1) All the time I was sitting there I was concious of the fact that someone was
watching me.

2) The main exibit in the gallery was a large sculpture in the main hall.

3) Acess to the building was blocked due to building work that was being
carried out.

4) We celebrated by opening a bottle of wine we had kept especially for the

ocasion.

5) I had to change seats as there was a draft coming through a crack in the
window.
6) Try to get into the habit of saving your reciepts as you can use them to claim
your tax back.

7) They evacuated the area as the building was looking dangerously like it was
about to collaps.

8) The living room was plane and simply decorated with nothing that might put
the buyer off.

Relative Clauses and Pronouns

You will possibly be tested on your knowledge of relative clauses and pronouns
in Part 2 and 4 of Paper 1 Reading and Use of English.

Defining relative clauses give essential information about a sentence and

cannot be omitted.
Example defining relative clause:
English students who do their homework deserve a lot of praise.
(Only those who do homework deserve praise. The information about
homework is essential)

Non-defining relative clauses give extra, non-essential information and

therefore could be omitted:
Example non-defining relative clause:
English students, who do their homework, deserve a lot of praise.
(English students deserve a lot of praise. The information about homework is
additional)

In defining relative clauses the pronoun is often omitted when defining the
object of the clause, but not when it is the subject of a clause.
Example:
He's the man (who/that) I was telling you about.
That's the man who helped me with my shopping.

In Non-defining 'that' is not used in non-defining relative clauses and the

relative pronoun cannot be omitted.

Pay attention to reduced relative clauses where a verb is used incorrectly:

Example:
** 'Products are sold here have a money back guarantee.' incorrect
'Products (which are) sold here have a money back guarantee.' correct

Note also the following nominal relative pronouns:

whatever, whenever, whoever, whichever, wherever, however
Relative clauses and pronouns >> Part 2: Open Cloze
Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
It was a film in ........ the main character struggles with various moral issues.

Answer: 'which'

Relative clauses and pronouns >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
I don't care who it is on the phone, can you tell them I'm not in.
WHOEVER
.......... on the phone can you tell them I'm not in.

Answer: 'Whoever it is'

PART 2

1) The Prime Minister, ........ recent trip to the Far East proved a great success,
is planning a second visit to Singapore later in the year.

2) The lights were on when I got home, ........ was the reason I became
suspicious.

3) The teacher finished the lesson at 3.00, at ........ point the students left and
made their way to the sports hall.

4) ........ leaves last, can you make sure the computers are turned off please.

5) You must come to stay with us when you're in town ........ you do!

6) The passengers finally arrived, some of ........ had been delayed for almost 8
hours.

PART 4

1) Can the person who left the lights on please remember to turn them off.
IT
Can ......................................... that left the lights on please remember to turn
them off.

2) I'm going to solve this puzzle - I don't care how long I spend on it.
TAKES
......................................... me I'm going to solve this puzzle.

3) It doesn't matter what he does, he'll be successful.

ENDS
........ doing he'll be a success.

4) It makes no difference which way you examine it, the team played really
badly.
LOOK
......................................... it, the team played really badly.

5) Every single time I phone Edward he's working at his computer.

GIVE
........ ring he's working at his computer.

6) There are adverts for that new shop all over the place.
LOOK
........ there are adverts for that new shop.

Prepositional Phrases
You are likely to be specifically tested on your knowledge of dependent
prepositions + nouns in several parts of Paper 1 Reading and Use of English.

There are many expressions in English which contain a dependent preposition

+ noun:

for a start
with respect to
in the belief that

Prepositional Phrases >> Part 1: Multiple Choice Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to select the missing word from a choice of four (A, B, C or D).

Example:
He took up exercise ........ the belief that it would make a big difference to his
life.
(A) in (B) on (C) at (D) with

Answer: 'in'

Prepositional Phrases >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
I called the meeting ........ the intention of presenting the new product.

Answer: 'with'

Prepositional Phrases >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You are given a complete sentence followed by a second,
incomplete sentence. You have to complete the second sentence so that it has
the same meaning as the first using a word given that must not be changed.

Example:
It's not likely but if I'm late please start without me.
EVENT
.......... I'm late please start without me.

Answer: 'In the unlikely event that'

1) Although she comes across as very calm ........ reality she's quite nervous.

A. ? with

B. ? at

C. ? on

D. ? in

2) We haven't got a great deal of food in the fridge but ........ all means help
yourself to what there is.

A. ? by

B. ? in
 C. ? for

D. ? at

3) Look, I'm telling you this ........ confidence. Don't tell anyone else, will you?

A. ? with

B. ? at

C. ? in

D. ? on

4) ........ the surface it seemed like a clever plan but we soon found flaws in it.

A. ? On

B. ? At

C. ? In

D. ? Against

PART 2 QUIZ

1) Sorry! It was an accident. I didn't do it ........ purpose.

2) We go into town ........ time to time, but generally we try to avoid the big city.

3) It was a bit boring at first but ........ balance I enjoyed the film.

4) I don't mind if you stay out late but phone to let me know ........ the very least.

QUIZ 4

1) I'm always searching for bargains when I go to charity shops.

ON
I'm always ........................................ for bargains when I go to charity shops.

2) If you try to understand what she's saying in her letter I think you'll find she's
looking for support.
BETWEEN
If you read ........................................ in her letter, I think you'll find she's looking
for support.

3) It says here that throwing the dice twice is not allowed.

AGAINST
It says that throwing the dice twice is ........................................

4) When the police breathalysed the driver they discovered he had excessive
alcohol in his system.
OVER
When the police did a breath test on the driver they found he was
........................................

Determiners
You are likely to be tested on your knowledge of determiners in Part 2 and 4 of
Paper 1 Reading and Use of English.

Determiners are one of the most frequent types of word in the English language
and you should have a good understanding of their meaning and how they fit in
a sentence. Here are some of the most common determiners:

a, an
all
any
both
each
enough
few
her
his
its
little
many
more
most
much
my
no
one
our
some
such
that
the
their
these
this
those
 what
which
your

The exam is likely to test you on your knowledge of the difference in meaning
and usage of similar words.
Example:
few x a few
There have been few teams in the world better than Brazil. (not many)
There are a few sweets left in the box. (some)

You will also be tested on your knowledge of determiners in set expressions.

Example:
There were no fewer than 450 people at our wedding!
Try to relax before the exam and above all get a good night's sleep

Determiners >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
He didn't get to class until 9.30. What's ........, he didn't bother to bring any work
with him.

Answer: 'more'

Determiners >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
My income isn't fantastic but it's sufficient to survive on.
ENOUGH
My income is .......... by on.

Answer: 'enough to get'

PART 2

1) However ........ times I read that book I never get tired of it.

2) I for ........ am very sad that he won't be playing for the team any longer.
3) We've had so ........ time to prepare for the party that I'm worried we might
have forgotten something.

4) Sales of the product remained flat as the marketing campaign did not have a
big ........ impact on consumers.

5) You're always in ........ a hurry. Sit down and relax for a minute.

6) Not having any travellers cheques yet is the ........ of my problems. I'm far
more concerned that I haven't received my passport from the passport office
yet!

PART 4

1) "It's a waste of time to ask for a payrise," my boss said, "because the
company's budget is being squeezed this year."
LITTLE
My boss told me there ......................................... for a payrise because the
company's budget is being squeezed this year.

2) John said, "Are any of you able to come to my party?"

FREE
John asked which ......................................... to come to his party.

3) Debbie is determined to get her ex-boyfriend back.

TAKES
Debbie will do ......................................... win back her ex-boyfrined.

4) No one expected Wayne to win the championship but he did even though he
didn't stand a chance.
ODDS
No one expected Wayne to win the championship but he did it
.........................................

5) The police think that the burglar must have had a key.
POSSIBILITY
......................................... that the police can think of is that the burglar had a
key.

6) The teacher told the boy that she wouldn't put up with his bad behaviour any
further that day.
QUITE
The teacher said, "I've had .......................... bad behaviour for one day."
PUNTUACTION

You are likely to be specifically tested on your knowledge of punctuation in

Paper 2 Writing.

In addition to basic punctuation such as full stops, question marks, commas and
capital letters, you should be able to identify correct and incorrect uses of the
following:

quotation marks
Used to start and end direct speech
Example:
"Nice day," he said.
Used when making reference to a book, film etc.
Example:
I saw a film called "The Lost World" on TV last night.

hyphens
Used to join some compounds
Example:
user-friendly

apostrophes
Used to show possession
Example:
Steve's car
Used where letters have been missed out in contractions
Example:
I'll see you later.

colons
Used to introduce a list
Example:
This is what is required: a tent, a rucksack and a compass.

semi-colons
Used to indicate a pause
Example:
It was a wonderful scene; the children were playing together in the garden with
their grandparents and everyone seemed to be without a care in the world.

Quiz

1) your cars in the garage isnt it

2) i havent got a clue what the answer is sam complained

3) i hear tom mathew and christine all want to buy franks twenty year old car
4) he was born in the 1950s when elvis presley first hit the charts

5) there are three main ingredients eggs milk and salt

6) theyre both living in a self contained flat in the middle of madrid

7) it was a great holiday however i dont think ill do self catering again

8) you havent seen my new sports car have you

PAST TENSES

You are likely to be tested on your knowledge of past tenses in Part 2 of Paper
1 Reading and Use of English.

You should be familiar with the main forms and uses of the past tenses.

Past simple
used to describe situations, events or actions in the past.
Example:
I lived in London as a child.
I went to bed early last night.

Past continuous
used to describe temporary situations.
Example:
I was living with some friends over the summer.

used to describe a scene in a narrative

Example:
The sun was shining and the birds were singing.

used to describe a longer action, sometimes interrupted by a shorter action.

Example:
I was having a bath when the phone rang.

used to make a polite request or suggestion.

Example:
I was wondering if I could have this afternoon off.

Past perfect simple and continuous

used to describe one action or event that took place before another in the past.
Example:
I left before the end of the film as I'd seen it before.

used to show that one action was completed before another began.
Example:
When they had had dinner they went to the park for a walk.

Future in the past

The following forms are all used to show future as seen from the past.
Example:
Everyone knew that he would become famous as he was always seeking
publicity.
I was seeing Steve later that afternoon and had to leave work early.
We were going to meet up to discuss our holiday arrangements.
I was to start work later that year in the accounts department. (Formal)

Past tenses >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
I ........ planned to go to University but I was unexpectedly offered a really good
job.

Answer: 'had'

1) As next in line to the throne it was presumed that he ........ be the person to
succeed his father.

2) I had ........ given the pen by a very close friend and was quite upset when it
got stolen.

3) We knew that the board of directors were ........ formally address the issue at
the next meeting and so decided to wait until then.

4) When you found out you'd failed the interview ........ it come as a surprise?

5) Having arrived and unpacked the suitcases we realised we ........ left the
camera at home.

6) The film ........ due to start at any moment when I started to feel sick.

Conjunctions
Concession
Though/Although/Even though/Much as ....., .....
....., though/although/even though/much as .....
Example:
Although she was injured, she played very well.
Much as I like cooking, I prefer to go out for a meal.
We went ahead with the party, even though a few people couldn't make it.

..... However/Yet/Even so, .....

..... Nevertheless, .....
....., but nevertheless, .....
Example:
He hadn't worked that hard during the year. However/Nevertheless on the day
he did really well.
He hadn't worked that hard during the year, but nevertheless, on the day he did
really well.
I know you didn't want to visit your in-laws. Even so, you could at least have
tried to enjoy yourself!

Conjunctions >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
The economy is going through a difficult period. ........., we expect things to
improve over the next 12 months.

Answer: 'however, or nevertheless'

1) We still haven't heard anything from John, ........ though we left a message on
his answer phone.

2) I've been working as a journalist for 10 years now and ........ I still wake up
each morning excited by the day to come.

3) I know you're feeling a bit ill but even ........, you should at least try to go into
school.

4) Understandable ........ your criticisms are, we are unfortunately not in a

position to offer you a refund.

5) It has been a difficult year for the company but ........, we have managed to
emerge with a healthy cash flow.

6) Try ........ I might, I just couldn't answer the questions on the exam paper.
Auxiliary Verbs
This unit will look at the auxiliary verbs used in structures that express
obligation and permission.

Must/have to
'Must' is used when the speaker has authority, 'have to' when the authority is
external to the speaker.
Example:
Keys must be left at reception. (receptionist)
You have to leave your keys at reception. (one guest to another)

Needn't have/didn't need to

'Didn't need to' is used to show that something wasn't necessary and so wasn't
done.
'Needn't have' is used to show that something was done unnecessarily.
Example:
We didn't need to make a reservation. We knew it would be empty.
Look! The train's empty! We needn't have made a reservation.

Should/ought to
'Should' and 'ought to' express obligation in the sense of communicating strong
advice.
Example:
You should take these tablets every day before meals.
You ought to see a doctor about that cough.

Can/may/could
'Can', 'may' and 'could' are all used to give and ask for permission. 'Be allowed
to' is used to express permission on a particular occasion, not 'could'.
Example:
I couldn't/wasn't allowed to stay up late when I was younger.
I was allowed to retake the exam after they discovered I was ill.
You won't be allowed to get in without wearing a tie.

Levels of formality
There are many other words and expressions used to express obligation and
permission, many of which offer a formal equivalent to the more neutral modal
verbs.
Example:
You don't need to come in tomorrow. Have a day off. (Informal)
It is not necessary to attend the session as participation is voluntary. (Formal)

Auxiliary verbs >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.
Example:
He ........ to do well in life as he's always been confident in his abilities.

Answer: 'ought'

Auxiliary verbs >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
They reserved a seat on the train but then discovered it was empty.
NEED
They .......... a seat on the train as it was empty.

Answer: 'needn't have reserved'

QUIZ 2
1) You ........ have to tell us before the 17th if you want to join the course.

2) Your car ........ washing. It looks a real mess!

3) We must ........ an answer before the end of the week or your application will
be cancelled.

4) I didn't mind arriving two hours before departure to check in but ........ have to
wait another two hours because of delays was ridiculous.

5) You ........ pay us a visit the next time you're in town. I insist.

Auxiliary Verbs
1) It was a waste of time using the alarm clock as I woke up early.
SET
I .................... the alarm clock as I woke up early.

2) Don't feel you have to come to the presentation.

ATTEND
There is no .................... the presentation.

3) You park your car on our premises at your own risk.

TAKE
The company does .................... cars parked on its premises.
4) It is advisable that sufferers of back pain rest for a period of time.
EASY
If your back is hurting you .................... for a while.

FORMAL AND INFORMAL LANGUAGE

There are many ways in which formal and informal language differ. Here are
some examples:

INFORMAL STRUCTURES

Idioms
over the moon - very happy
a nap - a short sleep

Missing words out

See you later
Got a minute?

Phrasal verbs
fed up - depressed
put up - erect

Contractions
I'll give you a hand
He's late

FORMAL STRUCTURES

Passive
The matter will be investigated
The money has been withdrawn

Inversion
Had I known
Seldom have I seen

Understatement
I was a little surprised (very surprised)
You are rather late (very late)

Formal versus informal language >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
Exercising daily will leave you feeling invigorated.
BEANS
You'll .......... if you do a bit of exercise every day.

Answer: 'feel full of beans'

QUIZ 1

Formal versus informal writing

Read the following two letters and compare the language used in each. Find
examples of how the following areas of language are used to create different
levels of formality. Click the text in blue for feedback.

phrasal verbs
idioms
missing out words
understatement
contractions
passives
inversion

Formal example

Dear Sir
I am writing to complain about the treatment I received in one of your hotels
during a recent visit to London.
On arrival on my first day I was rather disappointed to learn that my room had
been given to another person, despite the fact that I had reserved and paid for
the room in advance. Although I was immediately offered alternative
accommodation, the room was situated on the top floor and had neither a
television nor a telephone.
Moreover, despite the fact that I have complained on several occasions, I have
yet to be reimbursed for the cost of these services. In summary, I have decided
to put my complaint in writing. should I receive no satisfaction, I will be forced
to take further action against your hotel.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Ms Rebecca Jones

Informal example

Dear Tom
Just a quick note to let you know about the trip to London. The trouble we
had! Can you believe it? When we turned up at the hotel on the first day, the
receptionst told me they had given our room to someone else even
though I'd reserved and paid for it in advance. I was furious! They did offer us
another room, but it was right up on the top floor - no telly, no phone.
If that isn't enough, they keep refusing to pay me back the money they charged
me for extras. Anyway, the long and the short of it is I've sent them a letter
and told them if I don't get my money back I'll be taking them to court.
Anyway, write back soon.
Becky

QUIZ 2

1. 1) I am writing (formal)
Just a quick note (informal)
A. idiom

B. contraction

C. ? understatement

D. ? phrasal verb

E. ? passive

F. ? inversion

G. missing words out

2) On arrival (formal)
When we turned up (informal)

A. ? idiom

B. ? contraction

C. ? understatement

D. ? phrasal verb

E. ? passive

F. ? inversion

G. ? missing words out

3) I was furious! (informal)
I was rather disappointed (formal)

A. ? idiom

B. ? contraction

C. ? understatement

D. ? phrasal verb

E. ? passive

F. ? inversion

G. ? missing words out

4) They had given (informal)

My room had been given (formal)

A. ? idiom

B. ? contraction

C. ? understatement

D. ? phrasal verb

E. ? passive

F. ? inversion

G. ? missing words out

5) In summary (formal)
The long and the short of it is (informal)

A. ? idiom

B. ? contraction

C. ? understatement

D. ? phrasal verb
 E. ? passive

F. ? inversion

G. ? missing words out

6) I had reserved (neutral)

I'd reserved (informal)

A. ? idiom

B. ? contraction

C. ? understatement

D. ? phrasal verb

E. ? passive

F. ? inversion

G. ? missing words out

7) If I don't (informal)
Should I (not) (formal)

A. ? idiom

B. ? contraction

C. ? understatement

D. ? phrasal verb

E. ? passive

F. ? inversion

G. ? missing words out

PART 4
1) I have very poor eyesight and my glasses are a necessity.
BAT
I'm .................... without my glasses and totally lost without them.

2) They reckon the new building is costing about 20,000.

REGION
It is estimated that the new building is costing somewhere ....................
20,000.

3) It made me absolutely furious to find out they'd lost my luggage.

LITTLE
I .................... discover that my luggage had been mislaid.

4) If we'd known the problems the company was facing there's no way we would
have invested in shares.
AWARE
Had .................... the problems the company was facing we would not have
invested in shares.

5) Parents should avoid becoming irritated with their children simply because of
problems at work.
TAKE
It's really not fair to .................... the children if parents are feeling stressed at
work.

Phrasal Verbs 1
Phrasal verbs are extremely common in English and you will certainly meet
some in your CAE examination. There are three things to try to remember about
the use of phrasal verbs:

1 The meaning of a phrasal verb is often not clear from the verb and adverb
used:
Example:
How do you put up with his rudeness? (tolerate)

2 The same phrasal verb can often have two or more different meanings:
Example:
The driver had to stop as he couldn't get round the obstacle in the road.
She always manages to get round her parents if she wants
something. (persuade)

3 With phrasal verbs that require an object, the object can go before or after the
adverb but not if the object is a pronoun.
Example:
I spent the afternoon handing out leaflets.
I spent the afternoon handing leaflets out.
I spent the afternoon handing them out.
*I spent the afternoon handing out them. (incorrect)

Phrasal Verbs >> Part 1: Multiple Choice Cloze

Reminder: Part 1 consists of a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you
have to select the missing word from a choice of four (A, B, C or D).

Example:
He ran ........ huge debts while he was a student.
(A) in (B) on (C) up (D) with

Answer: 'up'

Phrasal Verbs >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: Part 2 consists of a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you
have to add the missing word.

Example:
We set ........ on holiday as soon as everyone was ready.

Answer: 'off'

Phrasal Verbs >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
He's been told by his employers he has to improve his timekeeping.
PUT
His employers have informed him they will .......... any more poor timekeeping.

Answer: 'not put up with'

Part 1 Quiz
1) She's really enthusiatic and throws herself ........ her work every day.

A. ? at

B. ? on
 C. ? onto

D. ? into

2) Apparently, the land at the back of the field has been contaminated with
some chemicals and some builders were fencing the area ........

A. ? off

B. ? up

C. ? back

D. ? in

3) You can see he's not interested. His eyes just glaze ........ whenever you talk
to him about financial matters.

A. ? up

B. ? through

C. ? over

D. ? away

4) I seem to be laying ........ lots of money on the car recently. It's costing me a
fortune!

A. ? out

B. ? up

C. ? in

D. ? down

QUIZ 2

1) Whatever you do, try to ........ him off the subject of football. Once he starts
talking about that you can't stop him!

2) Could you make the cheque ........ to 'F. Saunders' please.

3) The one thing I've learnt in business is you should never rush ........ a
decision that might cost you a lot of money.

4) Once you've ........ up the pros and cons I'm sure you'll agree Option A is the
best.

PART 4

1) The animal retreated when confronted by the predator.

BACKED
The animal .................... to face with the predator.

2) Arthur was heavily criticised after deciding to resign.

CAME
Arthur .................... lot of criticism following his decision to resign.

3) Joe left work to become self-employed.

SET
Joe left work to .................... business.

4) The children have a habit of misbehaving when left on their own.

GET
The children tend .................... mischief when left on their own.

Confusing Structures
'as' versus 'like'
Both 'as' and 'like' can be used to make comparisons. 'As' is a conjunction and
therefore is followed by a clause, while 'like' is followed by a noun.
Example:
Stop acting like a fool and get on with your work.
He decided to become a teacher, as his elder brother had always been.

'used to' versus 'be/get used to'

'used to + infinitive' describes a habit in the past. 'be used to + gerund' means to
be accustomed to whilst 'get used to + gerund' means the process of becoming
accustomed to.
Example:
I used to play a lot of football when I was younger.
I've been living in England for 6 months now but I'm still not used to driving on
the left.
I'm slowly getting used to working in the new department.

'a little/few' versus 'little/few'

'a little' and 'a few' are both positive expressions that mean 'some'. 'Little' and
'few' are negative and mean 'not much' or 'not many'.
Example:
There are a few sweets in the box. Help yourself!
There are few places in the world I'd rather be than on the beach in the South of
France.

'to have something done' versus 'to have done something'

The causative structure 'have something done' means to get someone to do
something. This compares to 'to have done something' which is an active
statement.
Example:
I had completed the exercise when I went out.
I had the work completed by another building company.

'except (for)' versus 'besides'

'except for' means 'apart from', whereas 'besides' means 'as well as'.
Example:
Besides the money she earnt from her full-time job she also received royalties
on a book she had written.
She didn't get any money except the allowance she received from the
government.

'didn't need to' versus 'needn't have'

'didn't need to' refers to something that was unnecessary and may or may not
have been done. 'needn't have' refers to something which was not necessary
but which was done.
Example:
We didn't need to pay for the meal as the company had already settled the bill.
We needn't have bothered doing all that homework. The teacher didn't turn up!

Past tenses >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
I ........ to live on a farm until my parents relocated to the city.

Answer: 'used'

1) I had a wonderful time at my grandfathers, ........ I always did when I went to

stay with him. (as/like)

2) I want a suit ........ that one we saw in the shop earlier. (as/like)

3) Do you think you'll have ........ used to the new prices by the time the shop
opens to customers?

4) There were ........ few students in class that we almost got one-to-one tuition!
5) We had ........ little time on our hands before the train arrived so we went to
have a coffee.

6) I had ........ my hair done earlier that day and didn't want to get caught in the
rain.

7) I don't eat any meat ........ chicken, which I probably have about twice a week.

8) It was really kind of you to take me into town but you needn't ........ put
yourself out.

Passive
1) Passives are generally formed with the verb 'to be' in the appropriate tense
and the past participle.

Credit cards are accepted in most shops. (present simple)

Your meal is being prepared Madam. (present continuous)
Peace talks were held in the capital yesterday. (past simple)
Rescue plans were being drawn up when the bid fell through. (past
continuous)
A cheque has been paid into your account. (present perfect)
Renovation work had been undertaken on the property. (past perfect)
Accommodation will be arranged before you arrive. (future simple)
We will have been married for 20 years next week. (future perfect)
We expect to be relocated towards the end of the year. (infinitive)

However, you will often come across examples of the passive where the verb
'to be' is omitted, particularly in newspaper headlines.
Example:
Prime Minister sacked!

2) Where verbs have two objects the passive can be expressed as follows:
I was given a promise that I'd be contacted by your representative.
A promise was given to me by your representative that I'd be contacted.

3) 'By' and 'with' are used in passive constructions with verbs like 'teach', 'fill',
'trap' etc:
Examples:
He was taught basic grammar by his teacher.
The bottle was filled with water.

4) You should also be aware of causative structures 'to have' or 'get' something
done ('get' is more informal).
Examples:
I'm getting my computer repaired this afternoon.
We're having an extension built at the end of our house.
Some of the reasons for using the passive are as follows:

1) When the agent is obvious, people in general or not important.

Examples:
Building work being carried out.
This product should not be re-frozen.
The coffee beans are picked and sent to the processing plant.

2) To create formality. Compare the following:

It is hoped that efficiency will improve with the new working practices.
We hope the new working practices will improve efficiency.

3) When the agent wishes to avoid being seen as responsible for an action.
Compare the following:
The company will be signing a multi-million-pound contract next year.
Unfortunately, wages will be frozen.

Passive >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
If we are ........ be taken seriously as a new business we need to start showing a
healthier cash flow.

Answer: 'to'

Passive >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
It's only natural that there will be nerves at the beginning of the competition.
EXPECTED
Nerves at the beginning of the competition ...........

Answer: 'is to be expected'

QUIZ 2

1) I've got an appointment at the fitness centre tomorrow as I'm ........ my level
of fitness assessed.
2) The view from the window was spoilt ........ the presence of a large tower
block opposite the street.

3) It has just been confirmed that the French athlete has ........ forced to
withdraw from the contest.

4) The party was packed ........ people from Clare's office and I didn't know
anyone.

5) He ........ asked to work late so as to get the order off in time.

6) Kevin ........ himself into trouble yesterday for taking an extended dinner
break.

PART 4

1) They plan to pull down the building next week.

DUE
The building .................... demolished next week.

2) I've heard it said that they are going to get a divorce.

IT
.................... that they are filing for divorce.

3) The people she worked with had a lot of respect for her.
THOUGHT
She .................... by her colleagues.

4) A car nearly knocked me down in town today.

AVOIDED
I .................... knocked down in town today.

5) The company paid us a bigger rise than we'd expected.

LARGER
We .................... expected pay rise.

Collocations 1
There are various types of collocation:

verb + noun
Example:
to drop a hint
to pick an argument

verb + adverb
Example:
to drink heavily
to warmly welcome

noun + verb
Example:
the tide rises
the sun sets

adjective + noun
Example:
a tricky question
a rapid response

This unit will look at verb + noun and verb + adverb collocations.

Collocations >> Part 1: Multiple Choice Cloze

Reminder: Part 1 consists of a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you
have to select the missing word from a choice of four (A, B, C or D).

Example:
The course in assertiveness really ........ his self confidence.
(A) jumped (B) enlarged (C) charged (D) boosted

Answer: 'boosted'

Collocations >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: Part 2 consists of a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you
have to add the missing word.

Example:
He had ........ I8 months of a two-year prison sentence when he was released.

Answer: 'served'

Collocations >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
The players received their cards and the game began.
DEALT
The players .......... and the game began.
Answer: 'were dealt the cards'

QUIZ 1

1) He is supposed to be ........ descended from aristocratic landowners who

lived in the 17th century.

A. ? precisely

B. ? exactly

C. ? immediately

D. ? directly

2) The college is ........ steps to solve the problems of poor retention.

A. ? taking

B. ? making

C. ? doing

D. ? placing

3) He went to bed early and slept ........ for almost ten hours.

A. ? thoroughly

B. ? powerfully

C. ? soundly

D. ? strongly

4) Dieting is a question of ........ a balance between eating healthily and treating

yourself to something special now and again.

A. ? striking

B. ? hitting

C. ? making
 D. ? creating

5) She has always cared ........ about the welfare of animals and campaigned
against animal experimentation.

A. ? passionately

B. ? lovingly

C. ? warmly

D. ? emotionally

6) He left the room and closed the door ........ behind him.

A. ? strongly

B. ? firmly

C. ? soundly

D. ? stiffly

quiz 2

1) He's a troublemaker and is always trying to pick a/an ........ with people.

2) The exhibition, whilst enjoyable, didn't really come up to .........

3) The rise in interest rates is partly to ........ for the lack of confidence in the
housing market.

4) Following their brilliant perfomances in the last two games, the match
between Italy and Brazil is eagerly ........ by all.

5) He's a nice person but we just don't ........ eye to eye on many issues.

6) His description ........ closely to that of the man the police are looking for.

PART 4

1) Both sides have made concessions in order to come to some form of

agreement.
COMPROMISE
Both sides .................... .

2) The work we've done this term is a good basis for the project next year.
LAYS
This term's work .................... for the project next year.

3) Our daughter absolutely adores her auntie

WORLD
Our daughter .................... her auntie.

4) There's very little Adam doesn't know about the subject.

INSIDE
Adam knows .................... .

5) The climbers were spotted by the search team, who went to their rescue
immediately.
CAUGHT
The search team .................... the climbers and immediately went to their
rescue.

6) It's pointless losing your temper. Just stay calm.

HEAD
There's no point losing your temper, just try and .....................

Reported Speech

You might be tested on your knowledge of reported speech in Part 2 and 4 of

Paper 1 Reading and Use of English. You should be aware of the basic rules of
reported speech including the required tense changes. This unit will focus on
the various verb patterns that are used when reporting. Note that many verbs
can follow more than one pattern.

verb + object + infinitive

The cashier told me to bring the product back if it wasn't suitable.
Fiona reminded me to pay the bills when I was in town.

verb + gerund
He admitted being a little late for work.
The chairperson proposed bringing the meeting to an end.

verb + infinitive
She offered to pay for the meal.
She agreed to get the work done by the end of the day.

verb + object + object

He told me his timetable for next term.
She denied him the opportunity to compete in the project.

verb + object + preposition

The teacher blamed Kelly for making the mess.
The bank threatened him with legal action if he didn't pay the money he owed.

verb + preposition
He boasted about having a large house in the country.
I was congratulated on passing the exam.

verb + that + clause

So, we all agree that we need to do something quickly.
Financial advisors warn that interest rates are likely to rise in the near future.

Reported Speech >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
She insisted ........ she should be allowed to take the day off.

Answer: 'that'

Reported Speech >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
Paul said his brother had smashed the window.
BLAMED
Paul ........... the window.

Answer: 'blamed his brother for smashing'

PART 2

1) The police appealed ........ calm after a second night of street disturbances.

2) He phoned me early in the morning to remind ........ of our date later that day.

3) The guests were advised ........ leave all valuables in the hotel safe.
4) He went to the doctors complaining ........ chest pains.

5) The teacher insisted ........ us all working on our own.

6) The driver reckoned ........ it would take about two hours to arrive.

PART 4

1) Do you think people will be very disappointed if we cancel the party?

WONDERED
He ......................................... the party off would disappoint people.

2) The Careers Advisor said I should think about my experience before applying
for the job.
TOLD
The Careers Advisor ......................................... consideration my experience
before applying for the job.

3) The company director insisted he would not be held responsible for the
accident.
REFUSED
The company director ......................................... blame for the accident.

4) The suspect said he hadn't caused the fire at the building.

SETTING
The suspect ......................................... to the building.

5) Bill was the man who talked me into starting some exercise.
PERSUADED
It was Bill who ......................................... up exercise.

Future Tenses
Will is used
to make a simple prediction
Example:
Do you think he'll come?

to describe a future fact

Example:
I'll be 21 next birthday.

to describe a spontaneous decision

Example:
I'll just phone Sue to see if she's coming.

Going to is used
to make a prediction based on present evidence
Example:
Look at those clouds. It's going to rain.

to describe future plans or intentions that have already been decided

Example:
I'm going to stay in this evening. There's something on TV I want to watch.

Present continuous is used

to describe a future arrangement
Example:
I'm seeing the dentist this afternoon.

Present simple is used

to describe future schedules, timetables or calendar events
Example:
Lessons start at 9.00.

Future continuous is used

to describe an activity that will be in progress at a particular time in the future
Example:
Don't go tomorrow. She'll be getting ready for her holiday.

to ask politely about someone's plans (and often preceding a request)

Example:
Will you be using the car tonight? I was hoping I could use it.

to describe a future activity that will take place in the normal course of events
Example:
I'll be arriving at platform 4.

Future perfect (continuous) is used

to describe an action that will be finished by a particular time in the future
Example:
I'll have taken the exam by the time I next see you. We'll have been living in
London for three years by this time next month.

More future constructions

'(just) about to' is used to mean 'almost immediately'

Example:
Don't be long. The film is just about to start.

'be due to' is used to describe a schedule

Example:
The performance is due to start at 10.00.
Future tenses >> Part 2: Open Cloze
Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
What time ........ your plane leave tomorrow?

Answer: 'does'

Part 2
1) Who will you ........ working with in your new job?

2) By the time I sit my CAE exams I ........ have been studying English for 4
years.

3) We ....... about to have dinner. Would you like to stay for something to eat?

4) The train's due ........ arrive soon so don't go walking off, will you?

5) Give Dad a ring and ask him for a lift. He ........ be happy to take you.

6) Look at the time! We're ........ to be late if you don't hurry.

Collocations 2
You might be tested on your knowledge of collocation in Parts 1, 2 and 4 of
Paper 1 Reading and Use of English.

Unit 8 examined verb + noun and verb + adverb collocations. This unit gives
practice in noun + verb and adjective + noun collocations:

noun + verb
Example:
the tide rises
the sun sets

adjective + noun
Example:
a tricky question
a rapid response
Collocations >> Part 1: Multiple Choice Cloze
Reminder: Part 1 consists of a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you
have to select the missing word from a choice of four (A, B, C or D).

Example:
We took Michael to the doctors as he had a ........ fever and a nasty cough.
(A) slight (B) small (C) little (D) minor

Answer: 'slight'

Collocations >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: Part 2 consists of a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you
have to add the missing word.

Example:
The lottery is a sensitive ........ with him. He once had all the numbers but lost
his ticket!

Answer: 'issue/subject'

Collocations >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
The players received their cards and the game began.
DEALT
The players .......... and the game began.

Answer: 'were dealt the cards'

Part 1 Quiz
1) As the applause ........ down the band prepared to play their next song.

A. ? went

B. ? died

C. ? slowed
 D. ? calmed

2) It's a top-of-the-range saloon car and the engine ........ on diesel.

A. ? runs

B. ? goes

C. ? travels

D. ? works

3) While I was living in Germany the opportunity ........ to teach in a local school.

A. ? surfaced

B. ? appeared

C. ? arose

D. ? came

4) We really liked the house and made the owners a ........ offer.

A. ? firm

B. ? hard

C. ? stiff

D. ? solid

5) They have a really difficult game ahead of them but I still think they have a
........ chance of getting a victory.

A. ? limited

B. ? possible

C. ? fighting

D. ? struggling
6) Despite problems in manufacturing, unemployment is falling thanks to the
growth of the ........ industry in the region.

A. ? selling

B. ? service

C. ? retail

D. ? consumer

PART 2

1) School breaks ........ next week for a four-week holiday.

2) They are a married couple, both in work, with a joint ........ of about 30
thousand pounds.

3) Unfortunately, her plans to set up in business ........ through at the last

moment due to financial problems.

4) Your seat belts should be ........ securely before take off.

5) The appeal of the President ........ in his ability to speak honestly to the
people.

6) The ........ ingredients of a Spanish omelette are eggs and potatoes.

PART 4

1) Katie stormed off angrily when she found out she hadn't got the job.
WENT
When she discovered she hadn't got the job Katie .................... huff.

2) I had to come home early from holiday as I'd spent all my money.
RUN
I had to cut short my holiday as my .....................

3) The audience really had a good laugh at the comedian's act.

ROARED
The audience .................... at the comedian's act.

4) He wasn't at all interested in passing and when he left the exam his paper
was completely empty.
BLANK
He wasn't at all interested in passing and at the end of the exam he left
.................... paper.

5) Always read the terms and conditions before signing any contracts.
SMALL
Always read .................... before signing any contracts.

6) Someone called earlier who was trying really hard to persaude me to buy
something.
HARD
I had someone on the phone earlier giving .................... about a new computer
system they've developed.

Auxiliary Verbs 2
This unit will look at the auxiliary verbs used in structures that express levels of
possibility.

Expressing possibility
The following modal auxiliary verbs are used to express varying levels of
possibility:

Certain

will/won't
must/can't/couldn't
should/ought to/shouldn't
may/may not

Not certain

might/could/might not

You can use these verbs to talk about levels of possibility in the past by adding
the perfect infinitive ('have' + past participle) and the future by adding will.
Example:
It can't have been Tom who called. He's away on business.
There's the phone. That'll be Steve.

It is possible to add certain adverbs to expressions containing modal verbs.

Example:
Hannah surely wouldn't have done that without asking first.
The teacher may well have forgotten the exam was today.

When expressing degrees of possibility there are several informal alternatives

to the more neutral modal verb structure:
Example:
You're bound to do well in the exam. You have worked so hard all year.
It's odds on that he'll be late. He always is.
There's no way I'm going to have time to catch the train.
It's a fair bet that he'll invite you to the party.
There's a fair chance that he'll get the job.
She's more than likely to want to go to an Italian restaurant as she loves the
food so much.

Auxiliary verbs >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
You won't ........ heard the news of their engagement as they only announced it
yesterday.

Answer: 'have'

Auxiliary verbs >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
There's a good chance we'll see Tom at the party tonight.
FAIR
It ........... we'll see Tom at the party tonight.

Answer: 'is a fair bet'

Part 2 Quiz
1) You can't ........ finished already. You've hardly touched your food.

2) You can't ........ expect me to lend you that much money!

3) They may ........ have got lost, which would explain why they're late.

4) This won't ........ the right way to John's. It's not at all familiar.

5) They ought ........ be there by now. They're probably unpacking as we speak.

Part 4 Quiz
1) Officials claim that there will probably be a train strike next week.
MORE
It ......................................... that there will be a train strike next week.

2) The company say that their share prices will certainly increase this week.
ODDS
It ......................................... that the company's share price will rise this week.

3) He will probably receive the price he is asking for the property.

FAIR
There ......................................... that he will get the money he wants for the
property.
4) I'm sure the weather will be better tomorrow than it has been today.
BOUND
The weather ......................................... better tomorrow than it has been today.

Prepositions
You are likely to be specifically tested on your knowledge of verbs + preposition
in Parts 1, 2 and 4 of Paper 1 Reading and Use of English.

There are many verbs in English which are followed by a dependent

preposition:
Example:
He was found guilty of the crime.
He was quite upset and confided in me.

Prepositions >> Part 1: Multiple Choice Cloze

Reminder: Part 1 consists of a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you
have to select the missing word from a choice of four (A, B, C or D).

Example:
I don't agree ........ the idea of eating meat.
(A) for (B) with (C) on (D) in

Answer: 'with'

Prepositions >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: Part 2 consists of a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you
have to add the missing word.

Example:
Our company specialises ........ search engine optimisation.
Answer: 'in'

Prepositions >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
He refused to go out with an umbrella even though it was pouring down.
INSISTED
He ........... out without an umbrella even though it was pouring down.

Answer: 'insisted on going'

Part 1 Quiz
1) I was browsing ........ a magazine the other day when I came across a really
interesting article about hypnotherapy.

A. ? inside

B. ? at

C. ? in

D. ? through

2) The chairperson was forced to intervene ........ the discussion as it looked like
it was getting out of hand.

A. ? in

B. ? on

C. ? with

D. ? to

3) I insisted ........ attending the presentation as I'd been involved in the project
all along.

A. ? of

B. ? with
 C. ? on

D. ? in

4) Lately we seem to have been bombarded ........ junk mail from people trying
to sell us everything from insurance to vacuum cleaners.

A. ? with

B. ? in

C. ? on

D. ? at

Part 2 Quiz
1) Despite being questioned for several hours the suspect showed no sign of
confessing ........ the crime.

2) The two celebrities clashed ........ a remark one of them had made to a
reporter about the other.

3) No matter how hard she tried she couldn't improve ........ the score she had
achieved in the first round.

4) I owe my success ........ the support my parents have given me over the
years.

Part 4 Quiz
1) He managed to get the job despite the fact that he wasn't qualified.
IN
He ......................................... the job even though he wasn't qualified.

2) The two animals have become really close since they've been in captivity.
BOND
A strong ......................................... the two animals since they have been in
captivity.

3) When I'm studying, having the TV on makes it difficult to concentrate.

CONCENTRATE
I find it difficult to ......................................... when the TV is on.
4) Tom's employers warned him he would be sacked if he didn't accept the new
working conditions.
THREATENED
Tom ......................................... the sack if he didn't accept the new working
conditions.

Verb Patterns
In addition to the reporting verbs that were practised in Unit 9 there are many
more verbs that follow set patterns.

verb + gerund
I fancy going to the cinema.

verb + infinitive
She expects to be offered the job.

verb + bare infinitive

I'd rather stay in if you don't mind.

verb + preposition
The company specialise in restoring old houses.

verb + object + object

Could you leave me the key before you go out?

verb + object + preposition

The rules prevent me from allowing you entry.

verb + object + infinitive

They have invited me to attend an interview next week.

verb + that + clause

I feel that we really must do something before it's too late.

Verb Patterns >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
The new company restricted the new trainee ........ doing menial work.

Answer: 'to'

Verb Patterns >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
He was able to participate in the competition despite his injury.
PREVENT
The injury did not ......................................... part in the competition.

Answer: 'prevent him from taking'

Part 2 Quiz
1) She missed ........ able to pick up her children from school after she returned
to work.

2) The builders needed to ........ overtime to finish the extension.

3) He disapproves ........ having a TV.

4) You'd better ........ an appointment to see the doctor soon or she'll be booked
up.

5) The sponsorship enables her ........ leave work and concentrate fully on her
sport.

Part 4 Quiz
1) I liked the idea of doing an evening class until I found out how much it would
cost.
TEMPTED
I ......................................... an evening class until I found out how much it would
cost.

2) Our budget won't allow for a holiday this year.

AFFORD
We ......................................... on holiday this year.
3) I'm happy to babysit if you want to go out.
MIND
I ......................................... if you want to go out.

4) After finishing the course George eventually became a well-known author.

WENT
George ......................................... a well-known author after finishing the
course.
Phrasal Verbs 2
Phrasal Verbs >> Part 1: Multiple Choice Cloze
Reminder: Part 1 consists of a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you
have to select the missing word from a choice of four (A, B, C or D).

Example:
She sailed ........ the exam, just as we told her she would.
(A) along (B) on (C) in (D) through

Answer: 'through'

Phrasal Verbs >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: Part 2 consists of a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you
have to add the missing word.

Example:
While I was on holiday I came down ........ a heavy cold.

Answer: 'with'

Phrasal Verbs >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
He's been told by his employers he has to improve his timekeeping.
PUT
His employers have informed him they will .......... any more poor timekeeping.

Answer: 'not put up with'

Part 1 Quiz
1) His investors promised to stick ........ the company while it was going through
financial problems.

A. ? in

B. ? along

C. ? out
 D. ? by

2) We've got the builders in our house at the moment. We're having a new
bathroom ........ in.

A. ? plumbed

B. ? piped

C. ? fitted

D. ? secured

3) I'd been looking for the book for months without success when I finally ........
one down in a tiny, independent bookstore on holiday.

A. ? pinned

B. ? ran

C. ? tracked

D. ? tied

4) Cast your mind ........ to your last birthday party. Can you remember who we
invited?

A. ? back

B. ? away

C. ? off

D. ? aside

Part 2 Quiz
1) One minute she was perfectly ok then all of a sudden she ........ into tears.

2) Trevor's got such an enormous appetite. I've never known anyone who can
put ........ as much food as he can.

3) What time do you knock ........ work? We could meet up when you have
finished for something to eat.
4) The Party won the election by an enormous margin, sweeping ........ the
opposition in an historic victory.

Part 4 Quiz
1) Don't get angry with me for missing the bus - it wasn't my fault.
TAKE
It's not my fault you missed the bus so don't ......................................... me

2) A cross country walk is guaranteed to leave you feeling hungry.

WORK
There's nothing like a cross country walk ......................................... appetite.

3) We're so busy at work that I think we might have to work this weekend.
SNOWED
We ......................................... work and might have to work this weekend.

4) The captain is trying to stop people having unrealistic expectations just

because the team have won their first two games.
CARRIED
The captain is warning everyone not ......................................... just because the
team have won their first two games.

Conditional Structures
Tenses are often used to express varying degrees of 'distance', whether it be in
terms of time, or in terms of what we perceive to be fact (real or possible) and
non-fact (unreal or unlikely/impossible). Conditional structures refer to factual or
non-factual hypothetical situations and can be used in any of the following
forms:

a) Zero conditionals to describe a general truth or fact. (no tense shift)

Examples:
He loses his temper so easily if things don't go to plan.
Provided you've finished your homework you can watch the TV.

b) First conditionals to describe a probable future result given a certain

situation (no tense shift)
Examples:
If he doesn't arrive soon we'll have to go without him.
Provided you take things easy, you should recover quite quickly.

c) Second conditionals to describe the possible result of a hypothetical

situation. Because the situation is seen as less likely or improbable, a shift in
tense takes place.
Examples:
If you were President of your country, what laws would you make?
What book would you choose to keep if you were only allowed to keep one?

d) Third conditionals to describe a hypothesis about the past. As it describes a

situation in the past, the hypothesis is impossible and therefore a further shift in
tense takes place.
Examples:
I would never have recognised you if you hadn't been pointed out to me.
You wouldn't have hurt yourself if you had taken more care.

e) Mixed conditionals to describe an impossible situation based on past and

present time references. As with second and third conditionals, the past perfect
is used when describing the past situation, the past tense to describe the
present.
Examples:
If she had tried harder she would be finding her exams easier now.
He wouldn't be playing for the team if he hadn't passed the medical.

Advanced points
In addition to 'if', note the following conditional links:
I'll phone you later, unless I have to work late.
I'll buy you the toy provided/providing you don't ask for anything else.
Were I to win the lottery, I'd give up work immediately.
Supposing we don't find the house. What shall we do?
Whether we buy the house or not, we won't be able to move in for a while.
No matter what you say I'll always love you.

Conditional Structures >> Part 2: Open Cloze

Reminder: You will read a short text which has 8 gaps. For each gap you have
to fill in the missing word.

Example:
You won't keep your job ........ you start working a bit harder.

Answer: 'unless'

Conditional Structures >> Part 4: Key Word Transformation

Reminder: You have to complete a second sentence so that it has a similar
meaning to the first sentence using a given word. In the exam you must use
between three and six words.

Example:
If you need any help please don't hesitate to ask.
ASSISTANCE
If .......... please don't hesitate to ask.

Answer: 'I can be of any assistance'

PART 2

1) This neighbourhood would be alright if people ........ more tolerant of each

other.

2) I do wish you ........ pay a little more attention to your work and try to make
fewer mistakes.

3) Whether you like it or ........, you're coming on holiday with us, and that's final!

4) If I hadn't decided to study Spanish at college I probably wouldn't ........

teaching in Spain now.

5) I've got nothing to do for the next few hours so I'll give you a lift into town
........ you wish.

6) Call me tonight to let me know how things go with your interview, ........ if you
don't get home till late.

PART 4

1) I have this successful business just because I decided to resign from my job.
HANDED
If ......................................... my notice I wouldn't have this successful business.

2) So long as you try hard I'm sure you'll do well in the exams.
MAKE
Provided ......................................... I'm sure you'll do well in the exams.

3) Suppose we decide we aren't happy with the service - can we have our
money back?
CONCLUSION
Should ......................................... that the service is not up to standard can we
claim a refund?

4) We can always go to the cinema next week if you change your mind.
SECOND
If ......................................... we can always go to the next week.
REVISION

QUIZ 1

1) ........ all means call me if you need any help with the decorating.

A. ? For

B. ? In

C. ? At

D. ? By

2) We've been laying ........ so much money during this holiday I think we're
going to have to start economising.

A. ? out

B. ? up

C. ? in

D. ? down

3) I think the council needs to ........ steps to combat the rising level of vandalism
in this area.

A. ? make

B. ? do

C. ? take

D. ? place

4) If the opportunity should ........ to work abroad I would be keen to be

considered.

A. ? arise

B. ? surface

C. ? appear
 D. ? come

5) I don't want to have to intervene ........ your discussion unless it gets out of
hand.

A. ? on

B. ? in

C. ? with

D. ? to

6) Cast your mind ........ to last weekend. Can you remember whether we went
shopping?

A. ? away

B. ? off

C. ? back

D. ? aside

7) She always comes across as very confident ........ the surface but the more
you get to know her the more you realise how insecure she is.

A. ? at

B. ? on

C. ? in

D. ? against

8) We need to ........ a balance between being child centred but at the same
time not spoiling our son.

A. ? hit

B. ? make

C. ? create
 D. ? strike

PART 2 QUIz

1) I do wish you ........ try a little harder to pay attention when people are talking
to you.

2) We have decided to cancel this week's performance ........ to the fact that
there has been so little interest from the public.

3) The speaker said something about the unemployed being lazy, at ........ point
many in the audience stood up and walked out.

4) My husband doesn't cook very often but ........ time to time he'll make an
effort.

5) Listen! It doesn't matter however ........ times you ask, I'm not giving you
anymore money.

6) I think I rushed ........ the decision to take the exam as I'm beginning to regret
it.

7) My plans to go to university ........ through when I failed to get the grades I

needed.

8) Why do you always leave ........ a mess whenever you do any painting?

PART 3

1) She would be a wonderful counsellor as she always shows ........ towards

other people's feelings. (SENSE)

2) The students went to the careers office to get some ........ on which course to
follow. (GUIDE)

3) She knows the job inside out and will be ........ when she retires. (REPLACE)

4) I ........ the amount of food we would need for the party and we ended up
running out. (ESTIMATE)

5) It's true that car sharing saves you money but the ........ is that you lose the
chance to have some time to yourself. (SIDE)

6) Lots of people are still on holiday so it's been very ......... and quiet at work
today. (EVENT)
7) There was a growing sense of ........ amongst those waiting at the airport
following delays of up to 5 hours on some flights. (PATIENT)

8) Would you like to try some of our ........ strawberries? We picked them fresh
from the garden today. (GROW)

part 4

1) I'm writing to you about the time I've been having off work lately.
WITH
I am writing ......................................... my recent absences from work.

2) Any valuables you leave at the hotel reception desk are left there at your own
risk.
ACCEPT
The hotel does ......................................... valuables left in its keeping.

3) It's probable that the meeting will last longer than usual.
MORE
It ......................................... that the meeting will last longer than usual.

4) The couple have had a disagreement concerning the children's education.

OUT
The couple have ......................................... the children's education.

5) This year's school holidays coincide with a busy time at work.

PLACE
The school holidays this year ......................................... time as a very busy
time at work.

6) Could you watch the children while I get an ice cream?

EYE
Could you ......................................... the children while I get an ice cream?

7) The bank manager said there was no possibility of the loan being increased.
QUESTION
The bank manager explained that increasing the loan was
.........................................

8) The exam finished before I'd answered all the questions.

RAN
I wasn't able to answer all the questions as I .........................................