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VOCABULARY:

pollution

logistics

CORRECTIONS:

he : male pronoun

she : female pronoun

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https://www.examenglish.com/grammar/b1_intensifiers.htm

https://www.examenglish.com/grammar/b1_connectors.htm

VOCABULARY:

In-laws are your husband's family. - that is they are your family due to the act of being legally married.

mother-in-law / father-in-law / brother-in-law / sister-in-law

PRONUNCIATION:

biscuits = bis-kits

Connectives join two clauses, and show the relationship between them.
The relationship can show:

a contrast Although, but, even though, however, despite, in spite of

a cause because, because of, as a result of, due to

an effect so, consequently, as a result, thus, therefore

These words cannot be used interchangeably. They may be located in different places with in the sentence, and they may use a different grammar.

Form:
a) Connectives showing Contrast
Compare these sentences with the same meaning:

i It is sunny but temperatures are low.

Never start a sentence with But. You can use but after a comma(,). In short sentences, no punctuation is needed.

ii Although it is sunny, temperatures are low. / Even though it is sunny, temperatures are low.

Note how Although and Even though are located in a different part of the sentence from But. Although and Even though go before the known clause, whereas but goes before the unknown clause. The two clauses are separated with a comma. The order of clauses can be reversed.

Temperatures are low, even though / although it’s sunny.

iii It is sunny. However, temperatures are low.

Note how however starts a sentence and is followed by a comma. It may also be seen after a semi-colon (;). Consequently, it is usually seen in longer sentences.

iv Despite the sun, temperatures are low.
In spite of the sun, temperatures are low.

Note the position of Despite and In spite of before the known clause. The order of clauses can be reversed:
Temperatures are low despite / in spite of the sun.

Also note that these words are followed by a noun, not a verb clause. You can also use the –ing form of the verb in these sentences.

Despite  / In spite of it being sunny, temperatures are low.

b) Connectives showing a Cause
Compare these sentences with the same meaning.

i I arrived late because the traffic was bad.
Because the traffic was bad, I arrived late.

Note you can ONLY start a sentence with Because if there are two clauses in the sentence.

Because we were late. INCORRECT
Because we were late, we missed the start of the show. CORRECT

Starting a sentence with Because is more formal than using it in the middle of a sentence, and is most commonly used in writing, not speaking.

ii I arrived late because of the bad traffic.    OR Because of the bad traffic, I arrived late.
I arrived late due to the bad traffic.      OR Due to the bad traffic, I arrived late.
I arrived late as a result of the bad traffic. OR As a result of the bad traffic, I arrived late.

Note how these expressions are followed by a noun, not a verb clause.

c) Connectives showing Effect
Compare these sentences with the same meaning.

i We were late so we missed the beginning of the show.

Never start a sentence with So. So can follow a comma(,). In short sentences, no punctuation is needed.

ii We were late and thus we missed the beginning of the show.
We were late and consequently we missed the beginning of the show.
We were late and as a result we missed the beginning of the show.
We were late and therefore we missed the beginning of the show.

Consequently, As a result, Therefore and Thus are more formal than So. They are common in formal sentences. They often start a sentence, but they can be joined to the previous sentence with and.

Common Mistakes:
1. Some students begin sentences with But and So.
Joe went to university. But he didn’t like it. → Joe went to university, but he didn’t like it.
2. Some students write a sentence with because and only one clause.
I went to the shop. Because I needed some bread. → I went to the shop because I needed some bread.
3. Some students do not use nouns when they needed to.
I went indoors due to it was cold outside. → I went indoors due to the cold weather outside.

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LESSON PLAN:

Verbs : rules, usage and test (83%)

CORRECTIONS:

babysit = verb

1. look after a child or children while the parents are out.

"I babysit for my neighbour sometimes"

NOTES:

https://www.grammar-monster.com/lessons/verbs.htm

Verbs : Past and Present tenses

https://www.grammar-monster.com/lessons/verbs.htm

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Linguaskill is a quick and convenient online test to help organisations check the English levels of individuals and groups of candidates, powered by Artificial Intelligence technology. It tests all four language skills - speaking, writing, reading and listening - in modules.

It provides accurate results within 48 hours and is easy to administer; you can administer the test at any time or place, even to candidates at home. Results are aligned to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), the international standard for describing language ability.

Linguaskill is distributed through our network of authorised agents who run and administer the test. By becoming an agent, you can enhance the portfolio of services offered to your clients.

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Linguaskill is a quick and convenient online test to help organisations check the English levels of individuals and groups of candidates, powered by Artificial Intelligence technology. It tests all four language skills - speaking, writing, reading and listening - in modules.

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Not sure which exam to take? Try our online test to find out which Cambridge English exam is right for you. It’s quick, free and gives an instant score.

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Reading and comprehension exercises

Decide on the missing word (you must find the word)

Select an option

Gap fill

Adverbs

Both, neither, either

VOCABULARY:

heavily

PRONUNCIATION:

Careful when saying verbs ending in 'ed'.

https://www.examenglish.com/BULATS/BULATS_reading_and_language_knowledge_part1_section4.htm

https://www.examenglish.com/BULATS/BULATS_reading_and_language_knowledge_part2_section1.htm

https://www.examenglish.com/grammar/b1_adverbs.htm

https://www.examenglish.com/grammar/b1_both_either_neither.htm

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LESSON PLAN:

Modals / past perfect / verb phrases

https://www.examenglish.com/grammar/b1_past_modals.htm

https://www.examenglish.com/grammar/B1_past_perfect.htm

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https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/grammar/b1-b2-grammar/different-uses-of-used-to

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the 3rd conditionals https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/grammar/b1-b2-grammar/conditionals-third-mixed

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Continuous aspect + perfect aspect + modal verbs

https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/grammar/english-grammar-reference/perfect-aspect

VOCABULARY:

tooth (singular)

teeth (plural)

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Prepositions and different  phrasal verbs.

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https://www.examenglish.com/BULATS/BULATS_reading_and_language_knowledge_part1_section2.htm

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Look at these examples to see how gradable and non-gradable adjectives are used.

It's really cold.
It's absolutely freezing.
This exercise is really difficult.
This exercise is completely impossible.

Try this exercise to test your grammar.

Grammar test 1

Adjectives: gradable and non-gradable: Grammar test 1

Grammar explanation

Gradable adjectives

Most adjectives are gradable. This means we can have different levels of that quality. For example, you can be a bit cold, very cold or extremely cold. We can make them weaker or stronger with modifiers:

She was quite angry when she found out.
The film we saw last night was really funny!
It can be extremely cold in Russia in the winter.

Here is a list of some common gradable adjectives and some modifiers that we can use with them.

Non-gradable: absolute adjectives

Some adjectives are non-gradable. For example, something can't be a bit finished or very finished. You can't be a bit dead or very dead. These adjectives describe absolute qualities. To make them stronger we have to use modifiers like absolutely, totally or completely:

Thank you, I love it! It's absolutely perfect!
Their farm was totally destroyed by a tornado.
My work is completely finished. Now I can relax.

Here is a list of some common absolute adjectives and some modifiers that we can use with them.

Non-gradable: extreme adjectives

Adjectives like amazing, awful and boiling are also non-gradable. They already contain the idea of 'very' in their definitions. If we want to make extreme adjectives stronger, we have to use absolutely or really:

Did you see the final match? It was absolutely amazing!
After 32 hours of travelling, they were absolutely exhausted.
My trip home was really awful. First, traffic was really bad, then the car broke down and we had to walk home in the rain.

Here is a list of some common extreme adjectives and some modifiers that we can use with them.

Do this exercise to test your grammar again.

Grammar test 2

Adjectives: gradable and non-gradable: Grammar test 2

Language level

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Do you know how to use adjectives in phrases like a bit cold, really cold and absolutely freezing? Test what you know with interactive exercises and read the explanation to help you.

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If you want to succeed in the world of business, English is a very important language to know, especially in today's connected world.

To get you started in the global English language, it is a good idea to know some important business English phrases and idioms.

And you can learn 200+ of them in this post!

Contents

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere.Click here to get a copy. (Download)

Sounding Authentic: 22 Business English Phrases and Idioms for All Occasions

The business has been registered with its own name, the employees are hired and the product or service is ready to be offered to the public. In other words, the owner got his or her business off the ground.
For example:
"After finding the right investors and securing enough capital (money to start with), we finally got our business off the ground and opened our first store in Toronto."

Similar to the last one, if you build a business or project from zero or from the bottom, you're starting from the ground up.
For example:
"Have you read the news about the enterprising 12-year-old who's building her business from the ground up?"

Imagine you're throwing a dart from a long distance. What are the chances of it hitting the bullseye (the exact center of the target)?

A long shot is an idiom that's usually used to describe something that has a very small chance of happening or succeeding.
For example:
"Landing such a high-paying job is a long shot but I'm still going to give it a try."

To bring [something] to the table means to bring something of use or benefit (skills, experience, etc.) to a job or business activity (project, meeting, etc.).
For example:
"We need someone on the team who can bring project management experience to the table."

Imagine that you're on a sailboat. The first thing you would learn is how to tie knots and work the sails. In other words, you would learn how all the ropes work!

To learn the ropes means to learn how to do your job or a particular task, especially if you have no prior experience. Because of this, it is commonly used when referring to new employees in training.

If you change it to say "to teach someone the ropes," you can use it to describe a boss or more senior person helping a new employee understand their role and responsibilities.
For example:

"Hey Paul, how's your new job?"
"It's great but I've only been there for two weeks so I'm stilllearning the ropes."

"I've got a great manager who's been teaching me the ropes, so I'm learning quickly!"

A learning curve is used to describe the progress someone has to make to gain experience or learn a new skill set. A steep learning curve indicates the task may be difficult and therefore take more effort.
For example:
"She is welcome to join our team, but there will be a steep learning curve."

To go the extra mile means to give more effort or do more than what's expected of you.
For example:
"Anyone would be glad to have Pam on their team. She's a great team player and is always willing to go the extra mile."

You might hear that something is a win-win situation, or that something is win-win in both business and regular English. The phrase describes a situation where everybody involved in the event or deal benefits from the outcome.

In business, it is often used during negotiations or trades, where both parties receive something that they need from the other.
For example:
"The deal is simple, we give them office space and they give us the new equipment that we need."
"It sounds like awin-win situation to me!"

Be careful that you don't overplay your hand. Being overly-confident about your work and your chance of success may actually disadvantage you.
For example:
"My cousin overplayed his hand and ended up losing his job."

Business meetings usually begin with some small talk while waiting for everyone to arrive. When it's time to start seriously focusing on the actual work, it's time to get down to business.
For example:
"We've got plenty of topics to cover in today's meeting so let's get down to business."

Again: let's get on with the business at hand. You might hear this at the start of a business meeting, after some brief introductions or socializing.
For example:
"Now that everyone's here, let's get down to brass tacks."

This phrase, like many other business expressions, is related to sports. The ballpark is the sports ground or stadium where baseball is played.

Giving a ballpark figure means giving an estimate of the value, time or number of something. It is used when the specific amount or number is not yet known or agreed upon but an estimate is required.

A ballpark is very large! So, this expression is specifically used for giving a very rough estimate or a large range in value.
For example:
"To give you a ballpark figure, the new project will take between one and three months to complete."

You may know that the last or bottom line on a financial statement is the most important. It shows the total profit or loss. So the phrase the bottom line is used in general to refer to the final outcome, or the most important point to consider.
For example:
"It's true that we're very short-handed, but the bottom line is we must still deliver the project on time."

Think of the business as a sailboat. The skies are blue and the water is calm. When everything is going well and without any problems, we call it smooth sailing.
For example:
"Once the company overcame the country's bureaucracy, it was smooth sailing from then on."

The big picture means to look at the overall view of something, or the situation as a whole and not the details.
For example:
"I think his presentation was too long and detailed. He should've just given us the big picture."

Have you seen a nutshell? Think of how small it is and how little it can hold. So, in a nutshell means in summary, or in as few words as possible.
For example:
"This book is about successful businesspeople and how they reached the top. In a nutshell, it's about how to grow a successful business."

The color gray is between black and white. When something is in a gray area, it means the situation isn't certain. In a gray area there are no clear rules and it's difficult to say if it's right or wrong.
For example:
"You have many good points in your proposal but there's one gray area we need to discuss."

Nobody likes to encounter red tape when they're trying to do their work. Red tape refers to excessive regulations and rules that you need to comply with before you can get your work done.
For example:
"Our project is stalled because we ran into some red tape."

To succeed in business, it's helpful to have good knowledge of business phrases and idioms.

So hopefully these business expressions will prevent you from getting the wrong end of the stick. This phrase refers to a total misunderstanding of a situation, plan or idea.
For example:
"Jackie's not in charge of this project... Mark is. Seems like you got the wrong end of the stick."

If you are given your walking papers, it means you have received a notice that you are being fired or laid off from your job.
For example:
"Did you hear? The boss just gave Brett his walking papers!"

Back to square one simply means to start over, or to go back to the beginning.
For example:
"I wish I'd saved my spreadsheet before the server crashed. Now I have to go back to square one."

When your work has been completed for the day, or when you decide to stop working on an activity, you can call it a day.
For example:
"Now that we've completed the outline for the new project, let's call it a day."

Business Conversations: 7 Phrases Related To Communication

Word of mouth refers to the spread of information verbally. In regards to business, it usually refers to people telling other people about your business, product or service.

Note that this expression is commonly used to talk positively about something.

If someone has a good experience with your product, then they may tell their friend about it, and that friend might tell another friend and so on-and before long, everyone is talking about your product! This is known as word-of-mouth marketing.
For example:
"Hi, if you don't mind me asking, how did you find out about our shop?"
"I heard about it throughword of mouth. Everybody kept telling me how great your products are!"

This is another business phrase that comes from a sport. In baseball, the bases are where the batter runs to after striking the ball. In business English, to touch base means to briefly connect with or re-contact someone.

This contact is often short and just used to check in with somebody. For example, if you are working with a colleague on a project, you can touch base with them about their progress, or about a part of the project that you are waiting for them to finish.

You will find that this expression is often used in emails.
For example:
"Hi Sarah, I just wanted to touch base with you to see if we're still scheduled to complete the first phase of the project by next Monday."

To be on the same page means to be in agreement or to hold the same views about something with others.

This is a very common English expression and is used frequently in both everyday English and business English.

You might also hear this expression formed as a question: "Are we on the same page?" This is the same as asking, "Do we agree?"
For example:
"Next month we need to cut spending by 20%. Are we all on the same page about this?"

Anyone who plays hardball is tough, ruthless and will not take "no" for an answer. Negotiating with these types can be a real challenge!
For example:
"Joe's the nicest guy I know, but he can play hardball when he needs to."

When a company uses clever marketing strategies and gets potential customers talking about a product, possibly even before it's released, it's called to generate buzz.

When thousands of people talk about a company, they are buzzing like bees. When people talk, there's a better chance that they will go check out what all the buzz is about.
For example:
"Before its summer release, the movie was already generating a lot of buzz in the media."

To meet up means to come together to talk. Meet up is usually used for short, informal meetings with a small group of people.

It is often used with prepositions such as "in," "at" and "with" to tell where, at what time or with whom you will meet up.
For example:
"Since we have a few problems to discuss, let's meet up in my office."

A schedule is a plan of times and events, but it can also be used as a verb. The verb to schedule means to plan a date and time for a certain event.

To schedule a meeting means to choose a date, time and place to meet with another person or a group of people.
For example:
"Let's schedule a meeting for this Tuesday to discuss any problems."

Working Together: 7 Expressions About Teamwork

There's no "I" in team means that no one particular person takes all the credit for the achievements of a group effort. It's kind of a cute phrase because the word "team" is truly not spelled using the letter "I."
For example:
"There's no "I" in team; we failed at this project together."

Lots of companies look for strong team players when they are hiring. They want someone who gets along well with others and supports a collaborative work environment.
For example:
"I love doing projects with Kate because she's such a great team player."

Yep, here's another of those baseball-themed business English expressions!

If you step up to the plate, you take on a role or responsibility-usually a difficult one that others don't want. This is a quality that companies look for in strong leaders.
For example:
"After the sales numbers dropped last quarter, David really stepped up to the plate and turned things around for the company."

Someone who passes the buck probably isn't a great team player, and they're definitely not a good leader.

When you pass the buck, you make excuses and pass blame to someone else if things don't go as planned.
For example:
"Josh lost us that client, but he tried to pass the buck to Samuel."

It means gathering a group of people to work on the project.
For example:
"The first thing a project manager does is form a team of staff who are best for the project."

Similarly to the above, it means joining together to work as a team.
For example:
"Sometimes on a big project, you may need to team up with other companies."

To pitch in means to join in to help with a job or project.
For example:
"Everyone will have to pitch in their ideas. We need each team member to share five ideas at the meeting on Monday."

Time Management: 15 Phrases About Time and Deadlines

This means "since the beginning." You often hear the phrase from day one used in the workplace to talk about something that has been true since the very first day a project or business began.
For example:
"I hope management realizes that our deadlines are very tight. We need to hire more people immediately. We've been short-handed from day one."

The eleventh hour is used to describe something that's done or happens at the last minute.
For example:
"The project manager won't be pleased about them changing the design at the eleventh hour."

If your manager says, "I need it yesterday," they don't expect you to construct a time machine.

Sure, it would be great fun to fly around in "The Tardis" catching up on a seemingly never-ending to-do list, but your manager really means, "This should have been done sooner. I need it right now."
For example:
"Where is that report? I need it yesterday. I'm going to be late for the meeting now."

Here's a business English acronym you might be familiar with: ASAP stands for "as soon as possible." Unsurprisingly, in business contexts, you'll hear ASAP quite often-it's as common in administrative vocabulary as in marketing and everywhere else!
For example:
"Please tell Mr. Huang to call his client back ASAP."

When under pressure, many employees say they are working 24/7: 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This doesn't mean they are actually working all day, every day, of course.

The term 24/7 is used to express hard work and long hours, usually in the hopes of avoiding finishing projects at the eleventh hour.
For example:
"This marketing project is killing me. I've been working 24/7 and it just won't end!"

This expression is used to talk about setting a date for an upcoming event-like a meeting, presentation or lunch-that might not happen on the scheduled time or date.

Since you are only using a pencil (and not something more permanent like a pen), you are leaving open the possibility of canceling or rescheduling the event.
For example:
"Hi Maria, can we meet next Tuesday at 1 p.m. to chat about the upcoming campaign?"
"I'm not too sure about my schedule. Let'spencil it in and see closer to the date, ok?"

This term is used when you need to start something new from nothing.
For example:
"Since we will be starting from scratch on this project, we will make the plan as we go along."

This expression means to break down the project into smaller parts, or phases.

A phase is one part in a series of actions or events. For example, in a library project, the design phase comes before the building phase.
For example:
"We must wait for the project team to define the phases before we can start work."

It's used when you need to set the dates when a job must be finished. A deadline is a date or time when a completed job is due, and set means "to make" in this phrase.
For example:
"We have set deadlines for each phase except the design phase. Does anyone know how long the design will take?"

To meet a deadline means that you finish the task by the deadline. For example, say you need to send in your job application by Friday at 3:00.

To meet the deadline, you send in your job application on Friday at noon. If you send in your job application on Friday at 4:00, you did not meet the deadline (because you were too late).
For example:
"We may have to work longer hours to meet the deadline."

It means that something is overdue or will be done later than planned

If your project was due on Monday, but it is now Thursday, you are behind schedule. The project was supposed to be finished by now, but you're still working on it.
For example:
"When the project manager hears that the project is behind schedule, she will want to know the reason why."

To be completed earlier than planned.

Imagine that today is Monday and your project is due on Friday. If you finish it tomorrow, on Tuesday, then you've finished it early and are ahead of schedule.

Good job!
For example:
"The project manager is happy that the project is ahead of schedule and thanked the team for their hard work."

It means that everything is going as planned.

You are doing a good job, there are no delays and everything is going as planned.
For example:
"If the project goes according to schedule, you can expect a nice bonus this year."

This phrase means that you are finishing each task on time and not expecting any delays.
For example:
"If we can solve all these problems quickly, we will still be on schedule to finish the project by the end of this month."

It means to have a date to complete something by that time.
For example:
"If we keep missing the target dates, this project will not be completed on time."

Talking About Money: 15 Expressions About Money and Finances

When you do something on a shoestring, you're working on a tight budget or with very little money.
For example:
"It's going to be a challenge doing such a big project on a shoestring but we'll try our best."

You certainly don't want to get the wrong end of the stick when your boss introduces you to a sleeping partner. This is a person closely connected to the company who may even be financing it, but there is no-I repeat, no -romance going on.

A sleeping partner gets this term because they're not actively helping to manage the company, though they are invested in it.

Another term for this is silent partner.
For example:
"Oh, he doesn't really have any say in the way we work. He's just a sleeping partner."

Cash cow is a term for a product or investment that provides a steady income, usually an amount that far exceeds the initial startup cost.

For example, the Coca-Cola company sells a lot of products from juices to teas to energy drinks, but the original Coke is likely their cash cow.
For example:
"These new products are just additional profit. The cash cow is our line of cameras."

This isn't a reference to extreme tailoring! It means help in the form of a wealthy investor or group of investors.

In other words, someone with deep pockets simply has a lot of money to spare.
For example:
"Let's ask Mrs. Henderson for help. She has deep pockets."

If a project or business goes belly up, it has failed to generate profit. This could result in bankruptcy or the company going into receivership.
For example:
"That new restaurant closed down already because they went belly up."

Here's one of those business expressions with a comparison that doesn't really make sense.

Taking a bath can be a refreshing, relaxing thing. But not in the business world.

If you take a bath, it means you suffered a heavy financial loss.
For example:
"The landlord is taking a bath on his property. He has no tenants!"

Just swap the word "belt" for "budget," and this will be easy to remember. If you tighten your belt, you are cutting extra costs and trying to keep your budget lean (small; skinny).

If your company took a bath and losses are severe, it could lead to cuts being made. The company and employees will have to tighten their belts, or reduce how much money is spent.
For example:
"We're going to have to tighten our belts. Unfortunately, our sales last month weren't as nearly as high as usual."

When profits soar, you can guarantee employees will be looking for a share of the wealth, or a slice of the pie. This business English expression simply refers to a portion of profits or benefits.

An alternative expression is a slice of the cake.
For example:
"She wants a bigger slice of the pie because she knows she's the best employee."

The lion's share is the "bulk" or "majority" of something.

Many well-run businesses reward hard work and it is only right that those employees who put in the most time, energy and effort should receive the lion's share, or the bulk of the profits.
For example:
"Paul has been here for 25 years and definitely gets the lion's share around here."

While they may sound like some sort of toy, golden handcuffs (not real handcuffs) are financial incentives given to employees in order to persuade them not to leave a company.
For example:
"Unlocking your golden handcuffs will give you much greater peace of mind."

Many executives have golden handshake clauses in their contracts. A golden handshake refers to a financial package that the executive will receive if they lose their job.
For example:
"Mr. Smith's golden handshake served him well. He got $100,000 when he left the company last year."

The corporate world is tough. It may be tempting to beat out the competition by giving kickbacks, or payments for special favors (like winning a contract).

But kickbacks are often unethical or even illegal-especially if they could be classified as bribes!
For example:
"The company is facing a government investigation because they think the executives are getting illegal kickbacks."

To make a plan on the amount of money to spend and how to spend it.
For example:
"We need to create a budget that includes the travel expenses of the project team."

To keep within the amount of money you plan to use, and refuse to spend more

Here is yet another phrase where the noun, budget, can't be used in its plural form (budgets).
For example:
"The project manager has reminded us that to stay on budget, we must remember to keep the costs as low as possible."

Add more money to the amount you planned to spend

The opposite of this phrase is to decrease the budget, which means to take away from the amount of money that you planned to spend.
For example:
"Management has agreed to increase the budget to cover the cost of testing the new car."

Doing the Work: 30 Phrases Related To Business Projects

To go back to the drawing board means to start over, and look at a failed idea in a new way. You can also use this phrase when you need to rethink a decision.

This expression is commonly used to motivate a team of employees to rework a failure. You can imagine a group of employees removing a failed design from a whiteboard and drawing a new idea. They are starting again by literally going back to the drawing board!
For example:
"We didn't sell any units of our new product."
"OK, let's goback to the drawing board and design a new one."

To brainstorm an idea is to openly discuss an idea with your colleagues in a relaxed and free environment.

This is commonly called a brainstorming session or simply brainstorming. The purpose of brainstorming in business is to explore ideas in an open-minded and non-judgmental environment.
For example:
"Hi everyone, in this meeting we're going to brainstorm ideas for this year's new product. Please feel free to share any ideas you have."

This term means to give the signal to begin. Think of this as a traffic light turning green when you're driving.

What do you do when the light is green? That's right, green means go.

This expression means you can go ahead and now begin the project.
For example:
"We can't start the project until management gives the green light."

To kick off means to officially start the project. This phrase is also used in sports.

In football and soccer, the game will kick off (begin) when a player kicks the ball to start play.
For example:
"As soon as we kick off the project, we will be very busy."

To think outside the box means to think in a creative way that is not typical or traditional. You can use this expression in business when you are talking about ideas.

If someone tells you to think outside the box, then they are telling you to think of a creative solution or idea that may be unexpected or not obvious.

You can imagine the "box" as a traditional and obvious solution and outside the box as a more creative or abstract solution.
For example:
"For our new advertising campaign, we really had to think outside of the box to come up with something that hadn't been done before."

Fifty-fifty simply means dividing something into equal parts so that both parties get 50%.
For example:
"Since I'm as busy as you are, let's split the work for this project fifty-fifty."

This phrase means to start a new project or business activity.

It can also be used to describe a small action that leads to the beginning of something. This usually starts with one person. For example, a person can get the ball rolling by doing a small task that will eventually become part of a bigger project.
For example:
"For our meeting today, Allie will get the ball rolling by talking about our budget goals for this quarter."

To get [something] off the ground means to start doing a job or project, usually after much discussion or planning.
For example:
"Months after looking into how to boost declining sales, we were finally able to get our aggressive sales campaign off the ground."

To hit the ground running is to begin a task or project with lots of energy and enthusiasm. The expression is commonly used when talking about a new project or idea that requires immediate, fast and lively action.

It is also used when talking about taking advantage of an opportunity.
For example:
"We really need to hit the ground running with this idea and get our product on the shelves before someone else does."

When a company becomes more successful than their competitors in developing a product or service, we say they have cornered the market. It's another way of saying they control the market.

Think of this business as a boxer in the ring. It's got its opponent in the corner, who can't move out of the way. Its opponent can only put their gloves up in defense. They are cornered, just like the competitors of the company.
For example:
"In only a short time, the company has been able to corner the high-definition television market."

This phrase is used to describe something, usually work, that's done or that happens away from public view.
For example:
"Organizing a roadshow may look easy, but do you have any idea how much hard work we've put in behind the scenes?"

Your boss doesn't want you to chit-chat and waste time! They want you to knuckle down, or concentrate on your work and get it done.
For example:
"All right, quit joking around. We need to knuckle down and finish this report."

To run around in circles means to keep doing something without achieving any real results. In other words, you're doing a lot of unnecessary work but not getting anywhere.
For example:
"The deadline is coming up, but we've been running around in circles because the client keeps changing their mind about the design."

Did you take some time off from work? Or, did you miss the last meeting?

Either way, you will have to get up to speed with everything that you need to know. This expression means to catch up on information, changes or updates that you have missed.

You can also say that the person who is teaching you the missing information is bringing you up to speed.
For example:
"It didn't take me long to get up to speed with the new laws as my co-worker explained them to me perfectly."

Imagine you have stepped into the stadium with the baseball bat in your hand. Thousands of people are cheering your name but, in your head, you are thinking about one thing: You need to keep your eye on the ball.

To keep an eye on the ball means to focus on your task or goal closely. It can also be used to encourage someone to pay attention or to watch out and maintain a high level of alertness.
For example:
"When it comes to business negotiations, you really need to keep an eye on the ball."

If red tape causes a delay in your project, you'll have to tell your manager that your hands are tied. There's just nothing you can do about the unfortunate situation.
For example:
"Sorry, we have to extend the deadline. The client hasn't returned my call yet and my hands are tied."

A drain is a hole where liquids and waste are sent away. For example, there's a drain in your sink, shower and toilet.

To go down the drain means that your effort, work or money is wasted or lost.
For example:
"If this sales campaign doesn't succeed, all our hard work will go down the drain."

Doing something by the book means doing it strictly according to the rules, policies or the law.
For example:
"I don't think John will listen to your suggestion. He insists on doing everything by the book."

You want to do things above board (the ethical and honest way) in business.

"We only do things above board here. If you want a job, you need to apply like everyone else."

If you are cutting corners, then you are not giving your project everything that you should. It means skipping some steps to achieve an outcome as quickly or as cheaply as possible.

It is used in a negative way, because something that's done by cutting corners might be missing an important part, use cheap materials or not be as good quality overall.
For example:
"The company cut corners when making their camera, so it's very cheap but it stops working after a few months of use."

This phrase is used when you want to say that you are starting to use a plan or idea.
For example:
"If we put this plan into action, we may need more time and more people."

To think carefully before taking action.
For example:
"The project manager's advice is to plan ahead so that the project will go smoothly."

To create a way to do something.
For example:
"How should we advertise this new product? Let's make a plan now."

To refuse to change from what you have decided, no matter what happens.

For example, you and your friend have decided to go to a movie Friday night. On Friday afternoon, your friend calls to say there is a sale at your favorite store.

She asks if you want to go shopping instead. You decide to stick to the plan, meaning that you will still go watch the movie.

This is another phrase where the noun, plan, can't be used in its plural form.

Even if you have many plans, you should still say " stick to the plan," not "stick to the plans."
For example:
"Changing the design now will take too much time. Let's just stick to the plan."

To inspect or look carefully again at the plan.
For example:
"If we want to include all these new ideas, we will need to review the plan."

The verb to task means to give a task (small job) to someone. However, this verb is almost always used in the passive form with the preposition "with," which looks like this: have/has been tasked with.

In that form, the whole phase means to be given a task.

For example, if I have been tasked with calling 20 clients today, that means someone else gave me the job of calling 20 clients.
For example:
"Your team has been tasked with finding out why there are so many customer complaints."

The verb to outsource means to send out the company's work to someone outside the company.

For example, if you own a small restaurant, you may cook the food yourself but outsource the desserts to be made by a local baker.
For example:
"Since the project team is busy, it might be a good idea to outsource some tasks to another company."

The phrase is used when you plan to finish something.
For example:
To succeed in reaching a goal.
For example:
"The project team can expect a free lunch if they achieve the target this month."

To finish the project.
For example:
"Okay, everyone, let's check all the paperwork and clean up the project room, then we'll be ready to wrap up the project."

To formally approve and accept the project as finished.
For example:
"All that remains now is to sign off the project and take the whole project team out to celebrate."

Online Meetings: 49 Phrases for Conference Calls and Zoom Calls

You will, at some point, be asked to take part in a meeting at your workplace. It is a good idea in business meetings to speak as clearly as possible and to be firm (strong).

Remember, though, that "firm" does not mean "rude" or "pushy." It can be easy to seem pushy if you do not add the all-important "please" and "thank you" to your phrases. These polite terms go a long way in business English.

Meetings are all about listening and letting people know that you understand what is being talked about.

Try the phrases below when you are in a business meeting or participating in a conference call.

Beginning a conference call

You will either hear these phrases or need to use them yourself while talking to people on a conference call.

These are useful phrases to check if everyone is present and has joined the conversation. When asked, just respond "yes" and give your name and position, or job at the company.

If you are using a video conference program, it may not be necessary to give your name since others can see your information through your video icon. However, it is still good manners to say hello to everyone when you join.

You can use these phrases to get started:

It is also common to hear a bit of small talk before the actual meeting begins. Some phrases you might use or hear spoken are:

Be aware that you will probably not receive actual answers to these questions. They are mostly rhetorical questions (questions that you do not have to actually answer). Most likely, you will get a few nods or a simple reply like "I'm doing fine, thanks." Despite this, it is polite to ask, and is a natural way to fill the silence before the actual meeting begins.

When it is time for the meeting to start, the person who is leading the meeting will signal that everybody should quiet down and listen up. Listen for these phrases:

Asking for clarification during a conference call

When talking on a conference call, there is a chance that your internet connection will be poor, or that the quality of the call will be bad. In these cases, you might miss out on something that someone said.

This happens to native speakers, as well! So, do not be afraid to speak up and ask for clarification. Here are some phrases that you can use to make sure you do not miss anything important:

Taking a break from the conversation

You might need to step away from a conference call. It is perfectly fine to excuse yourself, but make sure that you are polite and clear when you do it. Try these phrases if you need a break:

If you are on a Zoom call, you can leave a message in the chat to avoid interrupting the speaker.

When you return, let everybody know you are back by saying:

Being an active participant in meetings

As the meeting goes on, you'll want to be an active participant. That means speaking up if you have any questions, as well as giving your feedback when others speak.

If you accidentally speak over somebody or interrupt them when you speak, do not worry! It happens to everyone. You can use these phrases if this happens:

Sometimes, you will have to interrupt to ask a question. In this case, you can politely signal that you have a question

You can also participate in the conversation by agreeing and disagreeing with what others are saying.

Here are some useful phrases for agreeing:

You will not always agree with everyone else, and that is okay! Here are some phrases to disagree politely but firmly:

Planning for future meetings

When it is time to end the meeting, you may want to set up the next meeting. Whether you are talking with your co-workers, business partners or clients, here are some phrases to help you schedule future meetings:

After the person has agreed to the time, it is customary to confirm one last time just to make sure the other person has really heard.

If you are working with a global team where there could be confusion as to the time, add the "a.m." or "p.m." and the time zone if necessary, just to be sure you have been understood:

Check out this post for more phrases you'll need for your next business meeting:

Giving a Presentation: 22 Expressions for an Excellent Presentation

At some point, you may be called on to give a presentation. Even native English speakers should keep these simple! Business presentations are known for being dull-not many people enjoy sitting through many PowerPoint slides... do you?

Keep your presentation brief, speak clearly and try to waste as little time as possible.

If you are on a video call, remember that body language is still an important part of your presentation. As you talk, try to look up from your notes as often as possible to engage your audience.

Finally, try to have fun! People are generally forgiving if you make a few mistakes.

Starting your presentation

Begin by introducing yourself. Even though this is a business presentation, it is okay to be friendly and informal here, to get everyone to feel comfortable and interested in what you have to say. Here are some examples:

Note: remember to use the contraction "I'm" instead of "I am" to sound more friendly and less formal.

Introducing the topic of your presentation

After you have introduced yourself, it is time to introduce your topic of presentation.

Remember that business people are often busy people! This is a good time to practice your "elevator pitch." What is that? Well, pretend that you and the people you are speaking to are on an elevator going from the 10th floor to the 1st. You only have about a minute to express your point, and do it in such a way that everyone will understand.

It will take some practice, but try to say the topic of your presentation in a sentence or two. You can start your topic introduction with these phrases:

After you introduce the topic, you can give the listeners a "map" of your presentation, to help them know what to expect.

Ending your presentation

You have made it to the end of your presentation! Now comes the easy part: ending it. Once you have given your presentation and are ready to finish, use these phrases:

Negotiating Successfully: 4 Phrases to Get the Best Deal

When you are taking part in a negotiation, you might get what you want, but sometimes you may not. Here are some phrases that will work for each situation. Remember: Be polite but be firm.

Sometimes in a negotiation, you know you are not going to win. When you go into a negotiation, you should know what your "deal-breaker" is. A deal-breaker is absolutely not negotiable, or a condition that you will not accept no matter what. For example, the lowest price you are willing to accept for a product is $100 per piece. You will walk away if somebody demands a lower price.

Perhaps you are protecting your "bottom line." The bottom line is the financial situation beyond which you cannot operate.

Try these phrases to get the negotiation "back on track" if it seems you are "not on the same page." In other words, get the negotiation going in your favor if you are not in agreement:

For more phrases and vocabulary related to making sales and deals, take a look at this post:

Brainstorming: 30 Phrases for Suggesting Ideas and Solutions

One of the most powerful phrases you can use during a brainstorming session is one that includes a modal verb. These are special verbs that express ability ( could), possibility ( might, should) or request ( would).

They are small but powerful words to use for softening the effect of your tone in a discussion.

These phrases will help add a more diplomatic tone to your suggestions.

Making Suggestions

Beginning a sentence with the word "Let's..." will make you sound positive about working together toward a common goal, for example:

Phrasing your suggestion in the form of a question is a great way to set a softer tone:

Beginning a sentence with "I think" or "Maybe," even if you're very certain about something, is a good way to sound more diplomatic:

Rejecting Suggestions

Rejecting an idea or suggestion comes with a risk of offending someone or hurting their feelings. So we should approach this very carefully.

Starting a sentence on a positive note, even when we're about to reject someone's suggestion, will help to soften the impact (effect) of your message.

The use of the expressions "really" and "I don't think" softens the impact of the rejection:

Accepting suggestions

Accepting or agreeing with someone's suggestion is easy. However, instead of a direct "Yes" or "I agree," you may want to communicate different degrees (levels) of agreement. If you're very sure, you might say:

If you're not very sure, you might use these phrases:

Evaluating suggestions involves reviewing ideas and solutions, and selecting the best one to use. This usually involves discussing each idea or solution in detail and asking questions to generate feedback. Here are some good questions to ask during evaluation:

If an idea or suggestion sounds good but you need more time to think it through, you could use these phrases:

If you only agree partially (partly) with a suggestion, or accept only certain aspects (parts) of an idea, you could use these phrases to lead into saying which parts you agree and disagree with:

Now you're all set to shine at your next brainstorming session.

Tips for Speaking in Business Conference Calls

Before discussing phrases you can use during conference calls, let's talk a little bit more about what you should expect.

First, it is always a good idea to learn the software you will be using beforehand. Your conference call will go a lot smoother with just a little preparation before you start. Get on the software and learn where all the key features are. Try a test call to see how things go.

Talk with a friend at work and look at the agenda together (there should be one-if there is not, ask for one). The agenda is a document that will list the topics of the upcoming meeting. You will be able to ask your work friend about the words you do not understand and practice using them.

Use the mute button if you are not speaking while on an audio conference call. It is more polite and business-like, and can give you time to really listen and think about what people are saying.

If you are on a video conference call, look interested and nod your head when appropriate. It can be a bit strange at first, but try to be as engaged (involved) as possible and to be natural and friendly.

Some native speakers may use complicated idioms during conference calls. If you feel confident enough to "dive in," join in and give it a try too. However, remember that a plain-spoken approach with fewer idioms will get your point across more clearly during a business call.

How to Improve Business English Speaking Skills

How can you work on your speaking skills and learn new business English phrases at the same time?

There are tons of ways to improve your English speaking skills for business situations. The key is to always keep practicing-and to find the perfect resources for your business purposes!

Listen to podcasts. There are many podcasts made for business English learners. This series of podcasts from the British Council, for example, will help you to improve your English in your workplace. They are suitable (appropriate) for learners at an intermediate or advanced level.

Listen to English speakers. Pay attention to every native speaker you encounter. When answering a question they ask you, listen carefully to their choice of words and try to use those same words in your answer.

Watch authentic English videos. You don't need to have actual English-speaking individuals next to you to benefit from hearing native speech. Head online and watch videos made by English speakers for English speakers.

If you're a bit intimidated to listen to authentic English content, FluentU can make native videos easier to learn from. Search for business-related topics or words to see them being used in everything from instructional content on connecting with your customers to tips on nailing your elevator pitch.

Organize by skill level to find something suitable for you, then follow along with interactive subtitles that show you word meanings when you click on them. You can also add words to flashcard decks and take quizzes that change as you become more comfortable with what you're studying.

Read, read, read! The more you read, the more new words and phrases you will learn. Here are some suggestions:

and The Economist business sections are for more advanced business English learners. The articles are written for and by native speakers, so the language is very current and can sometimes be complex but well-written.

The Learning Network by the New York Times is specifically made for English learners. Some of the material is targeted toward teenage learners, but the lessons use real New York Times articles and are a perfect way to expand your vocabulary.

Learning English by the BBC is another great source of English-learning material for a wide range of levels. It has grammar lessons, podcasts, vocabulary lists and news articles which can help you slowly make your way to the main BBC Business news website.

Focus on common phrases with multiple applications. For example, short phrases such as "I'm sorry" can be used in a number of different business scenarios. For example: "I'm sorry I'm late to the meeting," "I'm sorry, I didn't quite catch that," "I'm sorry, but I disagree" and so on.

If you are already in business and your English is pretty good, learning new phrases and language to climb the corporate ladder (get a promotion) is always going to get you farther.

English is the universal language of business all over the world. The better your English gets, the more in demand you will be as an employee. Learn the business English phrases and expressions in this post to help you get started.

Keep listening and keep talking!

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere.Click here to get a copy. (Download)

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200+ Essential Business English Phrases and Idioms to Get You Through Any Business Interaction | FluentU Business English Blog

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Learning business English phrases and idioms can be the difference between sounding confident in the workplace and sounding lost!

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Préparation LINGUASKILL

Il est indispensable de se familiariser avec le LINGUASKILL avant de le passer. On évite ainsi les surprises et on se donne toutes les chances d'optimiser son score sans être dérouté par les formats de questions. C'est pour cela que nous avons créé le module LINGUASKILL Preview d'une heure environ (gratuit)

Pour les plus exigeants qui veulent améliorer leurs résultats, le LINGUASKILL Course a été conçu comme un kit de préparation complet avec examens blancs, fiches de préparation, entraînement systématique aux différents formats de questions. Le tout réalisable en ligne et à distance.
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Les examens d'anglais Lingaskill General et Business de Cambridge

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Linguaskill, ces certifications modernes, informatisées, adaptatives ont pris le leadership pour la formation continue, les entreprises et le CPF

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Exemples d'entreprises et d'établissements d'enseignement supérieur qui utilisent et acceptent Linguaskill :
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Comment préparer Linguaskill | Cambridge English

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Preparing for Linguaskill

We have a range of resources to help candidates who are preparing for a Linguaskill test. Our resources will help you:

Familiarise yourself with the test

Free online sample tests

Use these online sample tests to familiarise yourself with the types of questions used on Linguaskill. These sample tests do not provide a result or save your answers.

Note: The Reading and Listening sample test is not adaptive and is shorter than a real test. The Speaking sample test requires a headphone set and microphone.

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Watch our series of preparation videos.

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Top tips videos

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Official Quick Guide to Linguaskill

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information on the test structure and examples of every question type in the test

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Free online practice tests

Our practice tests help you get comfortable with the format and layout of the test while also providing you with feedback on the responses you have entered. You can take these practice tests as many times as you like.

Note: Linguaskill is an adaptive test that changes the questions based on your answers, to provide you with a score. Our practice tests are not adaptive - there are three tests available, at elementary, intermediate, and advanced levels.

Important information - please clear the cache on your computer before taking these practice tests, this will refresh the data that may have previously been entered.

Reading and Listening practice tests

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The Linguaskill Writing Assessment Criteria are a useful guide for teachers and students who want to understand more about how the writing test is assessed. However, please note that the writing test is marked using our AI Marker. This technology allows us to assess against a wider range of CEFR descriptors than is possible to include in examiner marked assessment criteria.
Linguaskill writing assessment criteria

Writing Practice

Want to practise your written English? Write & Improve gives you feedback in seconds.

This free online tool includes specific Linguaskill Business-related writing topics, it is a fantastic way to improve your writing skills.

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Speak and Improve is a great way to practise your speaking skills and get used to the experience of taking an online speaking test like Linguaskill.

Learn and improve your English

Cambridge English Empower

Cambridge English Empower is a general course that covers all levels of the CEFR. You can choose a course to suit your needs, from A1-C1.
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A recommended course for Linguaskill, Empower offers:

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both online and offline resources.

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Resources to help you practice and prepare for the Linguaskill test, including online sample tests and tools, tips, videos and courses.

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Contenu des tests Linguaskill

Les tests Linguaskill from Cambridge sont des tests innovants, sur ordinateur. Ils évaluent la maîtrise de l'anglais selon l'échelle du Cadre Européen Commun de Référence pour les Langues (CECRL), du niveau A1 au niveau C1+. De ce fait, vous pouvez comparer vos résultats aux standards internationaux.

Vous choisissez le test qui vous convient le mieux :

Linguaskill General (lancé en octobre 2018) pour les situations de la vie professionnelle courante (métiers du tourisme par exemple)

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3 modules combinables sont disponibles :

Compréhension écrite et orale

Expression écrite

Expression orale

Nous vous recommandons de passer les trois modules, afin d'évaluer et de prouver votre maîtrise de l'anglais dans toutes les compétences langagières : vous parlez et comprenez l'anglais, à l'écrit comme à l'oral.

Pour les candidats avec des besoins spécifiques (liés par exemple à un handicap), des adaptations des sujets et/ou du format des épreuves sont possibles. Pour en savoir plus, consultez la page Special Requirements (en anglais)

Le contenu des trois modules

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Les tests Linguaskill from Cambridge sont des tests innovants, sur ordinateur. Ils évaluent la maîtrise de l'anglais selon l'échelle du Cadre Européen Commun de Référence pour les Langues (CECRL), du niveau A1 au niveau C1+. De ce fait, vous pouvez comparer vos résultats aux standards internationaux.

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https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/grammar/english-grammar-reference/verb-be

https://www.grammar-monster.com/glossary/present_tense.htm#:~:text=The%20present%20tense%20is%20a,This%20is%20a%20current%20activity.)

LINK TO VIDEO

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This exercise tests the different verb tenses. It is an interactive drag-and-drop test.

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Video recording:

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Lesson Plan

Present Continuous (also called Present Progressive)

Pres Cont with Pres Simple

Exercises and rules - 95% for test!

Prepositions : in / on / at / to - revision exercise below.

https://www.thoughtco.com/english-prepositions-at-in-on-to-4165180

Verbs : Which one to use?

to perform

1. carry out, accomplish, or fulfil (an action, task, or function).

"I have my duties to perform"

Similar:

carry out / complete / achieve

2. present (a form of entertainment) to an audience.

"the play has already been performed in Britain"

Similar:

stage / put on / act /

to take - the opposite is to give

1. take hold of (something) with one's hands; reach for and hold.

"Mrs Morgan took another biscuit"

Similar:

grasp / grap / grip / clutch

2. remove (someone or something) from a particular place.

"he took an envelope from his inside pocket"

Similar:

remove / withdraw / extract

to take up is a phrasal verb of take

1. become interested or engaged in a pursuit.

"she took up tennis at the age of 11"

Similar:

become involved in / practise / become interested in

become interested in / start

engage in

2. occupy time, space, or attention.

"I don't want to take up any more of your time"

Similar:

consume / absorb / use

to get

1. to come to have (something):; receive

"My mum said if I get good grades she will buy me a phone."

"I got a letter from him the other day."

Similar:

acquire / obtain/ earn / purchase (buy)

2. succeed in attaining, achieving, or experiencing; obtain.

"I need all the sleep I can get"

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Learn English with our free online listening, grammar, vocabulary and reading activities. Practise your English and get ready for your Cambridge English exam.

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Phrasal verbs

https://test-english.com/grammar-points/b1/b1-phrasal-verbs-1-exercises-explanation/

https://test-english.com/grammar-points/b1/b1-phrasal-verbs-1-exercises-explanation/2/

https://test-english.com/grammar-points/b1/b1-phrasal-verbs-1-exercises-explanation/3/

A tough lesson : there are so many phrasal verbs but it really does help to understand some of them. Well done on completing all three exercises.

Video recording :

https://hipekids.zoom.us/rec/share/GDasFNEA7fBB4kKQFNw86SOWiA4qZl5-JdT9dnjHlXEIehrFS8j6JRfTC0oSUidH.RrgN8r5QzYj0CLt6

Passcode: g+XbsK4D

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B1 Phrasal verbs 1 - Exercises and explanation - Test-English

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Learn some of the most common B1 (intermediate) phrasal verbs with three exercises and a clear easy explanation.

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14/09/2023 - 25 mins

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Working through a B1 exam paper to review gaps for final lesson topics. We started with the listening/reading for comprehension exercises.

ex 1-40%, ex 2-80%, ex 3-40%, ex 4-20%. Ex 4 was a gap fill exercise - Vanessa selected the correct missing sentences to complete the text but not in the correct order. We will complete the exercises in our next lesson.

https://hipekids.zoom.us/rec/share/Jw1yn0pcxsr446cP39ZmgIWjnCRd5wSIvqpNndt3nSHc8orOjvrsdzxqgEHUCjyS.XzBUaGqoY_6uN_bG

Passcode: eMt3s$Dy

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B1 PET - Exam 1 - Reading - Test-English

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Master the B1 Preliminary (PET) Reading section with our full practice exam. Prepare effectively and boost your confidence!

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https://test-english.com/exams/b1-preliminary/b1-pet-exam-1-speaking/2/

https://test-english.com/exams/b1-preliminary/b1-pet-exam-1-speaking/3/

In today's lesson, we used the B1 speaking exam questions as the framework of our lesson. The aim, today, was to provide media for conversation and sentence construction. The exercises proved to be a little challenging and difficult for you in that you felt you had insufficient vocabulary to complete the tasks. Communication here is key and it was great to hear that, this very week, you had been able to manage work contact (meeting and calls?) (in English) which left you feeling your skills had improved and were 'fit for purpose'. Of course, there is always room for improvement and I recommend you listen to something of interest on the radion (news items??) or podcasts about subject that interest you. These will help improve and increase to lexicon and your grammar.

Link to recording

https://hipekids.zoom.us/rec/share/tjMOrH-74M_-PmO24gpwXQ7dQODZhJf8lb05DOGYC_8gYpk3jt-KDvxqNmKsMvVE.NnT8JZUx03ST236u

Password : 4+X0^VvP

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Cambridge B1 Preliminary (PET) - Speaking

The B1 PET Speaking test has four parts. These parts have different tasks that show the speaking skills of the candidates. Here's some general information about the B1 PET Speaking test:

It lasts for 10-12 minutes.

Candidates take it in pairs.

Two examiners check how you do.

In the test, you talk to the other candidate and one of the examiners, called the Interlocutor.

The other examiner, the Assessor, only watches and does not talk.

Now, let's understand each part:

PET Speaking: Part 1

In the first part, you talk about yourself. You'll answer questions about your name, where you come from, what you do, and more.

This part takes 2-3 minutes and has two phases.

In Phase 1:

The Interlocutor says hello and asks for the mark sheets.

They introduce themselves and the Assessor.

They start asking you questions.

This part is always the same. So, you can think about your answers before the test. But don't memorize everything. If you do, you won't sound natural.

In Phase 2, you get more questions about your hobbies, what you like, what you've done, and more. These questions can change, but you will always talk about yourself.

PET Speaking: Part 2

In the second part, which is also 2-3 minutes, you describe a picture for about a minute. Each candidate gets a different picture. You don't need to talk to the other candidate here.

The goal is to describe the picture without guessing too much. The pictures are of everyday things that B1 students should know.

PET Speaking: Part 3

In the third part, you and the other candidate have a conversation to decide something. First, the Interlocutor provides instructions for the task and shows you a series of pictures to get ideas. Then, you and the other candidate engage in a conversation for 2-3 minutes. The Interlocutor may interrupt to finish this part and start the next one. It's essential for both candidates to talk together, engaging in a conversation rather than merely taking turns speaking.

PET Speaking: Part 4

In the last part, the Interlocutor asks questions related to Part 3. They might ask only one candidate or both. This makes the conversation feel natural.

Example of a real PET Speaking exam

You can see how the exam works in this video:

Tips before the exam

Practice speaking English regularly

Speaking English alone, with classmates, friends, or family regularly will help you improve your confidence and fluency. Try to practise talking about the different topics on the list above. When there is a word that you cannot say in English, look it up in the dictionary and write it in a list.

Work on your vocabulary

Try to keep a list of words you learn while practising your speaking. Also, learn new vocabulary about the topics on the list and try to use it when you are speaking.

Read and listen regularly

The most effective way to improve your range of vocabulary and grammar is to read and listen to English regularly. Those students who can do that over a long time learn much faster. You don't need to spend hours reading or listening, just a few minutes, but do it every day or couple of days.

Be prepared

Review the exam format, questions, and language expressions in advance to feel more relaxed and confident on exam day.

Tips during the exam

Stay relaxed

Take deep breaths, or use any technique that you find effective to be relaxed. When we are relaxed, we speak better. Try to speak as you would speak if you were with friends. Remember, the examiners are there to help you succeed.

Don't pay too much attention to your mistakes

It's important that you try to speak correctly, but it's even more important that you can communicate fluently and effectively. Some students think too much about the correct way of saying things and then they hesitate a lot and there are long and repeated pauses in their speech. You should concentrate more on what you want to say than on how to say it correctly.

Use complete sentences

When the examiner or your partner asks you a question, answer using full sentences. For example, if they ask you whether you like fish, don't just say 'Yes.' You could say, 'Yes, I like it very much. I eat fish two or three times a week.' Or if they ask you where you are from, don't just say, 'Livorno.' You could say, 'I'm from Livorno, a city in the north of Italy.'

Listen carefully to the examiners

Pay attention to the examiners' instructions and questions. It's important that you do exactly as they say.

Useful Vocabulary for Part 2 of the exam

Starting a description

In this picture there are some people...

In this picture I can see a man/woman/group of people...

This picture shows a couple/woman/man...

Describing people's postures

They're sitting

They're standing

They're lying down

Describing positions of objects and people

Speculating

I believe...

My guess is...

Perhaps they are...

It appears to me that he/she/it is...

They seem to be...

He/she seems to be...

Maybe they are...

Useful Vocabulary for Part 3 of the exam

Initiating the conversation

Do you want to start? / Would you like to start?

Shall I start?

Okay, I'll start.

Giving your opinion

I think/believe/feel (that)...

In my opinion,...

I guess (that)...

I have no doubt that...

I strongly believe that...

Asking for your partner's opinion

What do you think (about...)?

What's your opinion?

Do you think ... is a good idea?

How do you feel about...?

What/How about (doing) sth.?

Expressing agreement or disagreement

Of course (not)

I (completely) agree (with you)

I think so too

Exactly

That's true

You may be right, but...

I don't think so...

I don't think that...

I don't agree (with you)

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B1 PET - Exam 1 - Speaking - Test-English

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Master the B1 Preliminary (PET) Speaking exam with our complete practice test. Detailed scenarios, prompts, and expert insights!

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Sadly, that concludes our lessons. We spent the final lesson working through three of the four present tenses on the website https://test-english.com:

present simple, present perfect and present continuous.

I will send a separate mail which will briefly summarise the lessons covered.

https://hipekids.zoom.us/rec/share/tkY7mX3_aHQkH2cJAEWbcpQA2wYR6jCthc6duFqwFqYA5mM_oBks_MTPkyYBrSY4.43hYv9C5CpXU5jWk

Passcode: 7tLA&^8K

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What would you like to learn today?

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Test your English - Every level and every skill

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Free English lessons at Test-English.com: grammar, vocabulary, listening, reading. Learn English online for free with tests and exam prep.

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In summary, all language skills (speaking, vocabulary, pronunciation, reading and comprehension) were taught using various methods. These were conversation, both general [including small talk] and  business language, role play scenarios, exam questions and web based exercises. More specifically, though not exhaustive, the following grammar topics were reviewed:

tenses

modal verbs

conditionals

prepositions (place and time)

phrasal verbs and phrasal verbs with prepositions

conjunctions (including both, either, neither)

adjectives (gradable and non-gradable / superlative and comparative forms)

nouns (countable and uncountable) + determiners and quantifiers

idioms

adverbs

intensifiers

In the time we have been working with you, Penny and I both agree that you have improved your conversational skills considerably. There is improvement too in your range and use of vocabulary, pronunciation and some grammar points. When speaking, one area that challenges you is the use of verb tenses. We feel that though you understand the rules relating to all twelve tenses you sometimes get flustered and your verbs are inclined to slide a little. Having said that, your confidence and abilities have increased and you can certainly communicate and get your point of view across.