Wednesday, 1 June 2016

Sentences from class with new vocab

Week 01/06/2016
Sentences with new vocabulary.
No sooner had she finished her exams than she took pride in her hard work.
As soon as she had finished her exams, she took pride in her hard work.
No sooner had I let my hatred for them disappear than I started to put up refugees (in my house).
No sooner had I arrived on the island than my hatred of the sea increased.
Were I to have more space in my house, I would not mind putting up refugees.

I would pass the exam with flying colours, were I to study more.

Use of English exercises from class



Formal letter writing task


Tuesday, 10 May 2016

Formal letter writing tips

Writing Task - FORMAL LETTER

Dear Sir/Madam (In case you don’t know the name → Yours Faithfully)
Dear Mr X (→Yours Sincerely)

Reason for writing (Who I am (not the name!), What I want, When and Where it happened)
I am writing with regard/reference to (the article which appeared when/where) to express my concern about/disappointment with/dissatisfation with/disapproval of/apologies for (motivation)

Body (2/3 paragraphs – Points from input material)
  • Firstly/To begin with/Moreover
  • In fact/Furthermore/In addition/Finally
  • (I feel) I must also (dis)agree with
  • I would like to/ I want to  point out that
  • According to your (article)/ Your (article) states that.. However/which is completely wrong

Action Step/Desired outcome
  • I trust/very much hope you will (print this letter in the next issue of your newspaper)
  • I would appreciate it/be grateful if you would
  • It seems only fair that you should
  • I look forward to receiving/seeing
  • In light of the above (I feel I am entitled to a full refund and a formal apology)

Ending
Yours faithfully/Yours Sincerely
Firma
(Ruolo/Carica)

Linking Words:

Formal

Less formal

Addition

furthermore, in addition to,
in the same way as,
moreover, similarly

also, and, as well as,
besides, just as

Opposition


although, however,
nevertheless, nonetheless,
whereas

but, or, so, on the other hand

Reference
in all cases, in general,
in many cases, in most
cases, in some cases,
regarding, with reference to

since, so

Cause and effect (result)

accordingly, consequently,
on the whole, therefore,
thus, unfortunately
anyway, at any rate, because,
because of

Listing

firstly, finally, in the first
place, secondly, lastly, next
after, and, and then, before,
first, last, second, soon, then
http://www.flo-joe.com/cae/students/writing/makeover/makeover23.htm

Follow this link to see a model answer with corrections.

Wednesday, 4 May 2016

Listening tests parts 1 and 2

Part 1
You will hear three different extracts. For questions 1 – 6, choose the answer (A, B or C) which fits
best according to what you hear. There are two questions for each extract.

Extract One
You hear two students talking about a work-experience scheme they took part in.
1 Why does the girl regret her choice of company?
A The office was poorly equipped.
B The staff tended to ignore her.
C The work lacked variety.

2 They both think that the work-experience scheme has
A been good preparation for a future job.
B made them appreciate student life more.
C taught them a lot about the business world.

Extract Two
You hear part of a discussion programme in which two journalists are talking about the
world’s wetlands.

3 What does the man think about wetlands?
A They would benefit from more visitors.
B Their beauty is artistically important.
C They serve only a limited purpose.

4 What is the woman doing?
A explaining how easily wetlands can be restored
B suggesting why wetlands are disappearing
C describing the way wetlands are exploited

Extract Three
You overhear a woman showing a friend one of her childhood photos.

5 What point is she making about the photo?
A It is an accurate portrait of her family life then.
B It looks more posed than she remembers.
C It perfectly captures a brief moment.

6 As a result of looking at the photo, she realises that
A possessions acquire a significance beyond their practical usefulness.
B it’s a mistake to become too attached to objects.
C objects from that era lasted longer.


Part 2
You will hear a chemical engineering student called Jack Byers talking about his course and a
research project he took part in during his summer vacation. For questions 7 – 14, complete the
sentences with a word or short phrase.

JACK’S VACATION PROJECT

Jack says it was his special interest in the issue of (7) …………………………………
that led him to choose his degree subject.
Jack thinks he’ll be reluctant to work in the (8) ………………………………… industry in the future,
due to his interest in conservation.
Jack hopes that his future work will help various (9) …………………………………
to be processed in a better way.
Jack says that people sometimes mistake pieces of plastic on beaches
for (10) …………………………………… .
Jack says that plastic on beaches which is (11) …………………………………in colour
has usually been in the sea longest.
Jack uses the term (12) ………………………………… plastics
when talking about the kind of items he thinks should be eliminated.
Jack thought that part of a (13) …………………………………
was the most interesting piece of rubbish he found during the project.
While cleaning the beach, Jack was asked to examine the (14) …………………………………
which was lying on the sand.

Wednesday, 27 April 2016

Informal letter/email tips and questions

CAE - informal letter/email

Paper 2 Part 2 - Informal letter/email

A LETTER/AN EMAIL (formal or informal) is written in response to the situation outlined in the task. Letters/emails in the Cambridge English: Advanced Writing paper will require a response which is consistently appropriate for the specified target reader.
When a response is framed as an email, letter-writing conventions such as an opening salutation, clear paragraphing and closing phrasing are always important.

Hints

  • DO begin by giving a reason to write. You would normally start with a greeting, then acknowledge the letter or some key information given in the letter to which you are replying.
  • Use paragraphs in which you cover each of the points mentioned in the task input.
  • As well as the points mentioned in the task input, think of some of your own ideas.
  • Identify the function(s) you should use (e.g. advising, reminding, requesting, suggesting...).
  • Make sure the points covered follow a logical right order so that the whole letter/email is coherent.
  • Finish the letter/email in a natural way, by arranging to see or contact the person your are writing to again soon.
  • Remember to use an informal tone.

Model questions and answers

Informal letter/Email - Model question

TASK
Read part of an email from a friend who is planning to come and live in your country.
Of course, I'd really need to learn the language. I know you've been learning English for years, so you've had loads of experience. Are there any tricks of the trade that might help me pick up your language a bit more quickly?
Reply to the email message offering your friend some advice. Write your email in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.

Informal letter/Email - Model answer

Dear Emma,
Thanks so much for your email. It was so good to hear from you. I'm really sorry not to have been in touch earlier but I've been up to my eyes preparing for my exams.
What great news that you're finally coming to France - I can't wait to catch up in person! And you're going to learn French too - fantastic!
I've bee learning English since I was a kid as you know, and by far the most useful experience was going to that language school in Brighton for three months last summer. If I were you, I'd definitely enrol in a course like that to keep you focused. I'd also suggest reading as widely as possible, online newspapers, blogs, books, the back of a cereal packet - anything, really! Don't be tempted to buy one of those 'Learn French in a weekend' courses though - a waste of time if you ask me. Learning a language takes time and effort.
What seems to work for a lot of peope is learning songs. My brother reckons that he has learnt more English from the Top 40 than he has at school. And you know my frien Lucie? She raved about her fortnight with a host family, so that's worth a try too. Of course, you could also get a French boyfriend or girlfriend to speed up your progress!
Anyway, I hope that's helped give you a few ideas. Do write back as soon as you can - I'd love to hear all the details of your plans.
Lots of love,
Sandrine
[+/- 255 words]
- See more at: http://www.rubenvalero.com/english/content/cae-informal-letteremail#sthash.TMolrQd1.dpuf

Proposal tips and questions

CAE - proposal

Paper 2 Part 2 - Proposal

PROPOSALS and reports have a similar layout (see reports in this same section). Reports are based on current circumstances or situations whereas proposals are action plans for the futureYou give more space to the current situation in a report and more space to recommendations for future actions in a proposal.

Hints

First things first...
  1. Begin by brainstorming ideas, in any order, and don't worry about language at this stage.
  2. Group your ideas under headings for each section of your proposal.
  3. Write a first draft, paying attention to the level of formality of the language.
Don't forget!
  • Begin by stating the purpose of your proposal.
  • Use an impersonal, semi-formal style.
  • Use clear layout with headings.
  • Express opinions and make recommendations in the last section of your proposal.
  • Include a final sentence summarising your opinion.
  • Use bullet points but not too many.

Useful language for a proposal

Stating the purpose of the proposal
  • The principal aims/objectives of this proposal are to...
  • This proposal is intended to...
  • In this proposal I describe/evaluate/present/assess...
Background information
  • Comments made at the end of the questionnaires suggest...
  • Following a survey among families of young children...
  • Concerned members of the local community were invited to attend...
  • A number of concerns with regard to the most recent street party were expressed by locals...
Making recommendations and suggestions
  • A working group should be set up by...
  • There should be an enquiry into...
  • I recommend that a larger survey should be conducted before a final decision is reached...
Final recommendations
  • The results of the survey/questionnaire suggest that the introduction of heavier fines would seem to be the best option/choice/solution.
  • If these recommendations are implemented, the situation is bound to improve.
  • Unless these suggestions are implemented, it is unlikely that there will be any improvement in the short term.

Model questions and answers

Proposal- Model question 1

TASK
Your college currently doesn't provide enough support for students planning to spend time studying in another country. You see this notice in the library.
The college is planning to introduce a special course for students planning to spend time studying in another country. The college principal invites students to send a proposal outlining any problems students may face whe studying abroad and suggesting ways in which the course could address these problems. A decision can then be made about what to include on the course.
Write your proposal in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.

Proposal- Model answer 1

Introduction
This proposal is intended to outline common issues students have when studying abroad, and suggest ways that a course could help them to deal with these. The final section makes recommendations about what should be included in the course curriculum.
Problems when studying abroad
Interviews were conducted with 20 students who have recently completed a student exchange programme. The majority of students were of the opinion that overcoming the language barrier in their new country was the biggest challenge and nearly half also said that they experienced culture shock. Other problems cited included unrealistic expectations, loneliness and packing the wrong things - particularly being unprepared for a different climate.
Ways a course could address these
A course could prepare students for culture shock by raising awareness of the phenomenon and describing cultural differences that students may encounter in their host country. To aid participants with language, a course could include some useful phrases for the first days after arrival, in addition to some resources for language learning. The course could also include a discussion about combating isolation and adjusting expectations.
Recommendations
I would like to make the following recommendations:
  • Invite students who have previously studied abroad to share aspects of the culture they found surprising and give advice on what to take.
  • Provide a list of useful phrases, together with suggestions of useful resources for language learning such as websites, blogs or e-books.
  • Facilitate a discussion about engaging with people to avoid loneliness and isolation.
If these recommendations are implemented, young people are bound to feel more prepared for their experience.
[+/- 265 words]

Proposal- Model question 2

TASK
Students at your college have to give a spoken presentation as part of their final assessment and need some help. The school director has invited you to send a proposal outlining any problems students have with presentations and suggesting how these problems could be overcome.
Write your proposal in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.

Proposal- Model answer 2

Helping with students presentations: a proposal
Introduction
In this proposal I will describe some of the difficulties students at this school have with preparing their final presentations, present the key needs to be addressed and conclude by making by making a series of recommendations on how teachers at the school could assist students with overcoming the obstacles to giving a successful presentation confidently.
Current situation
Following discussion among the students, it has become clear that many of them are feeling very nervous about the upcoming presentations. A number of students are struggling to select an appropriate structure. Comments made suggest that students lack previous experience in public speaking and would like opportunities to practise before the final assessment.
Key needs to be addressed
Students require additional help with topic selection and presentation structure, and opportunities need to be provided for students to gain experience in front of others.
Recommendations
I would suggest the following actions to teachers at the school:
  • Provide students with a list of possible presentation topics.
  • There should be a lesson or workshop on structuring a presentation for those who are interested.
  • I recommend that students are given time during class to practise their presentations in small groups.
  • Additional upfront speaking opportunities should be incorporated into classes including plays and games.
If these suggestions are implemented, it will lead to increased student confidence and performance for the final presentations.
[+/- 225 words]
- See more at: http://www.rubenvalero.com/english/content/cae-proposal#sthash.1DNoSzSR.dpuf

Wednesday, 20 April 2016

Writing models and tips for class

Follow these links for useful expressions, tips and model answers

Letter to the editor

http://www.flo-joe.com/cae/students/writing/makeover/makeover27.htm

You have read an article in your college magazine about the effects of the internet on studying. The article focuses on the negative effects, in particular the influence of social-networking sites and email. You feel the article has too negative a view of the way students use the internet, and decide to write a letter to the editor explaining your opinion.
Write your letter.

Proposal

http://www.rubenvalero.com/english/content/cae-proposal

Tuesday, 5 April 2016

New vocab and expressions from class

Week 30/03/16

A seven figure sum = an amount of 1 million or more
To allure = To attract
Firm = business/company
To encounter = To come across
Reef = Collection of colourful rocks made of shells in the sea
To bear in mind = To take into consideration
It gets themselves talked about
It’s all very well letting people choose the price but…

The meal was spoilt

Wednesday, 16 March 2016

Review exam question

2
Your town recently held its first ‘Sport for All’ day, with both adults and children competing in different sporting events. The aim of the day was to encourage more people to participate in sport. You have been asked to write a review of this day for your college magazine. In your review you should briefly describe the day, say whether its aim was achieved and outline any improvements for the next ‘Sport for All’ day.
Write your review.

Tips for writing your review

http://www.rubenvalero.com/english/content/cae-review

CAE - review

Paper 2 Part 2 - Review

A REVIEW may be about a book, magazine, film, play or concert; it may also be about a product or a service. A review in the Cambridge English: Advanced Writing paper does not merely ask for a general description of the thing reviewed, but requires an evaluation of its suitability for a particular purpose or audience. The target reader is specified in the task, and candidates should be encouraged to use this information when choosing appropriate ideas and language to include in their response.

Hints

  • title is advisable.
  • Think what your are trying to achieve and, in the introduction, DO give your reader and indication of the structure of your review. You should also raise a question in your reader's mind.
  • Start a new paragraph for every item/aspect you are addressing in your review.
  • Try to make it interesting by using a wide range of vocabulary: colourful, lively language; comparisons to describe something; specialised topic vocabulary.
  • DO give your assessment of what you are reviewing and DO NOT forget to cover all the points mentioned in the task input.
  • DO include a final recommendation or evaluation in the final paragraph.
Don't forget!
  • The target reader is specified in the question, so the candidate knows not only what register is appropriate, but also has an idea about the kind of information to include.
  • Language of opinion (positive, negative), recommendation, description is necessary.

Useful language for a review

What I liked
  • What I liked most was …..
  • The thing I liked most was ….
  • I was pleasantly surprised by …..
  • ….. would appeal to …..
  • If you get a chance to ….
What I disliked
  • What I disliked most was …..
  • I was disappointed by/with ……
Reviews of books
  • main character
  • is set in
  • Fiction: science fiction / thriller / fantasy / mystery / historical / romance ...
  • Non-fiction: cook book / travel book / textbook / manual / coffee-table book ...
  • atmosphere / plot
  • author
  • written by
  • chapter
  • factual
  • unbelievable
  • bestseller
  • ending
Reviews of concerts
  • artist / band / musician / (bass/lead/rhythm) guitarist / (backing/lead) singer / drummer / soloist / trio / orchestra
  • auditorium / hall / venue / lyrics / (catchy) tune / score / gig
Reviews of exhibitions
  • painting / sculpture / handicrafts
  • gallery / catalogue / display
Reviews of films
  • lead role
  • star role
  • star
  • star actor/actress
  • starring
  • secondary role
  • He plays a …….
  • written by ….
  • cast / director / producer
  • is set in …..
  • based on a true story …..
  • believable
  • true to life
  • not very believable
  • far-fetched
  • (As for fiction books +): animation / adaptation / comedy
  • Costumes / design / photography / script / special effects / soundtrack
  • ending
Reviews of plays
  • scene / act / set / stage / interval
Reviews of TV programmes
  • Chat shows / current affairs programme / debate / documentary / series / soap opera/ sitcom (situation comedy)
  • Host / presenter
Reviews of hotels, restaurants, etc
  • location
  • service
  • setting
  • attractive / disappointing setting
  • owned by
  • run by
  • head chef (restaurant)
  • waiters (restaurant)
  • staff …….
  • staff at reception …….(hotel)
  • hotel facilities ….
  • reasonable prices …..
  • good/excellent/poor value for money …..
  • (a bit/somehow) expensive
  • overpriced
  • not worth the money
  • always fully booked
  • book in advance
Criticism
  • The script seemed rather conventional/predictable to me.
  • The plot struck me as completely bizarre/absurd/incomprehensible
  • The characters are appealing and true to life
  • The dancers were quite brilliant/amateurish
Recommendations
  • I would strongly encourage you not to miss/not to waste your money on...
  • I would definitely recommend seeing/visiting/reading/having a look at ...

Model questions and answers

Review - Model question 1

TASK
You see this announcement in an international magazine called Cinefilia.
The most UPLIFTING and the biggest DOWNER.
It's sometimes hard to choose a film that fits your mood purely on the basis of the poster or the description on the cover of the DVD. That's why we want to publish reviews of the most uplifting and the most depressing films our readers have seen, so that others know what to watch and what to avoid.
Send in a review which describes the most uplifting film you've ever seen and the one you found the biggest downer. Make sure you give reasons for your choices.
Write your review in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.

Review - Model answer 1

In this review I am going to compare two contrasting tales about overcoming adversity. Whereas The Blind Side (2009) left me with a huge grin on my face, sadly, Doctor Zhivago(1965) left me feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders.
Doctor Zhivago, directed by five-time Oscar winner David Lean, is set in the Bolshevik revolution and follows the title character, who must adapt to the new order while pining for Lara, the beautiful wife of a political campaigner. The director succeeded in creating a film that is thoroughly engaging but full of gritty realism, cruelty and tragic irony. Take the tissues!
The Blind Side, which is based on a true story, is also a bit of a tearjerker, in a completely different way. Starring Sandra Bullock, who won an Academy Award for her portrayal of a rich white mother in Tennessee who takes a homeless black teenager under her roof. Understandably, the gentle giant thinks he isn't good at anything but his new mother sees his potential to become a football star and part of the family. The plot is based on a true story, making it all the more touching.
I would strongly recommend The Blind Side. It will appeal to a range of people and is a great choice for a movie night. Although Doctor Zhivago is a classic, I think it has more of a niche audience and is best saved for when you want a dose of gloom!
[+/- 245 words]

Review - Model question 2

TASK
You see the following advertisement in a music magazine.
Ever fancied yourself as a music journalist? Now's your chance.
We're looking for enthusiastic music lovers to write a review of their favourite album of all time. We want to know why you love it and why you think everyone should listen to it. It doesn't matter who the artist is or how old or new the music is.
Send in a review of your favourite album of all time giving reasons for your choice.
Write your review in 220-260 words in an appropriate style.

Review - Model answer 2

thrilling album
I'm certainly not alone in my choice of favourite album. In fact, Michael Jackson's "Thriller" has sold over 50 million copies worldwide since being released in 1982, and still currently holds the much coveted title of "best-selling album of all time". A toe-tapping blend of pop, funk and R&B, it's sure to get everyone grooving at a party, yet also contains unexpected emotional power in the lyrics.
Jam-packed full of catchy melodies such as the opening "Wanna be startin' something" and the famous "Beat it", almost every song makes you want to hum along. It's like a feast for the ears, with a range of styles from the soft duet ballad with Paul McCartney "The Girl is Mine" to the rock/pop of the title track. The album will leave you with no doubt of the unique and extraordinary talent of the King of Pop. What disco would be complete without a few of his renowned numbers?
Unlike much of today's mordern pop, this album actually deals with a huge number of deep themes such as jelousy, loneliness and obsession. The song "Billie Jean", for example, chronicles a story of a crazed fan who insists that she has his baby. Not hard to imagine that the artist was channelling some real experiences in his writing.
It doesn't surprise me at all that this remains the best-selling album of all time and I challenge evern the most cynical listener to play "Thriller" without tapping along.
[+/- 245 words]

Thursday, 25 February 2016

New vocab from classes 17/02 and 24/02/16

Week 17/02/2016
Wise = clever / knowledgeable
To distinguish between two things
To cause embarrassment
To undergo therapy
To come to terms with something = to accept
To regard something as …..
To be a factor in + gerund
To be under new management
To break down = to cry your eyes out
To place the blame with somebody = to say somebody is guilty for something
To be under the impression that …. = to believe that…
Little did I know that = I would never have guessed that…
Profitably
World-wide

Appraisal

Week 24/02/16
To peddle = To cycle
Stubbornness(noun) = when you will not change your opinion/decision even though you know you are wrong
Constraint (noun) = Restriction
To spur something = To propel (impulsar)
American prairies = flat lands in America
To be awed / to be in awe = to be amazed
Perk = a benefit (usually to do with a job)
To dwindle = To reduce gradually
To slacken off = To reduce gradually

Wednesday, 17 February 2016

New vocab from class 03/02/16

Week 03/02/2016
To be responsible FOR something
To understand the implications of something
To be DIRECTLY related to something

To deal / cope with something well / badly

Wednesday, 3 February 2016

Answers to transformations

1. were obliged to take into

2. was wondering if you could give

3. not have raised my voice

4. don't hesitate to call

5. slightly less that it

6. any better it will mean (them)

7. make any difference

8. have broken into

Monday, 1 February 2016

New vocabulary and expressions from class

Week 27/01/2016
An increase IN something
Less + uncountable noun   Fewer + countable noun
To overcome a barrier/problem/an obstacle/hurdle
To be damaging TO something – To be unhealthy FOR something
To impede PROGRESS
To keep something to a minimum
The (comparative adjective), + better
ON its own account – OF its own accord – IN its own way – IN its own terms
To suit somebody’s needs
WITH the aim of doing something
To correspond TO something – To match WITH something
She decided to do it on her own terms so that it suited her needs better.
I kept the volume to a minimum so that it wouldn’t impede my sister’s studying.
I am in advanced classes with the aim of passing the exam.
Smoking is really damaging to your lungs; if you want to overcome this problem, the less you smoke the better.
As there were fewer cars on the roads, there was an increase in pedestrians due to unhealthy fumes being kept to a minimum.
When it comes to painting, the quicker, the better, in the decorator’s opinion, he just does everything of his own accord.
Speaking:
“Let’s agree to disagree”
Where was I?
Back to my original point/question…
Graduating must be a great feeling
Synonyms of I agree = I see what you mean / That’s a good point you make / I see where you’re coming from / I like what you say
Enterprise (uncommon) – Business (better!)

Doomed = it will fail for sure

Wednesday, 13 January 2016

Answers to Use of English and new vocabulary from class 13/01/2016

PART TWO
13 followed 14 little 15 the 16 for 17 to 18 Though/Although/ While/Whilst 19 why 20 their 21 another 22 may/might/will 23 not/never 24 out 25 off 26 so 27 being


43 were obliged to ][ take into

44 was wondering if/whether ][ you could/would/might lend/give

45 not have raised ][ my voice

Week 13/01/2016
To be responsible for something = to be in charge of something
To understand the implications of something
To cope with something = I can’t cope with my job/I can’t deal with my job
A vital part of something
Heart rate
Livid = really angry
Fury/furious = anger/angry
To stick to doing something = To not change what you are doing
Leap = jump
Mannerisms = A particular gesture that a person often does
To break down = To burst into tears
Don’t get me wrong = Don’t misunderstand me
Collating reports = Put together reports

To keep an eye on something