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How to write a letter: A Great Guide for students and teachers

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How to write a letter. Formal, and Informal letters included. Planning tools, video tutorials, writing prompts, and teaching ideas for English teachers, students, and parents.

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Video games offer a considerable amount of adventure and entertainment. Traditional games, like Tetris, or the more modern Candy Crush Saga, are puzzling brain busters that require a certain level of strategy in order to be successful.

Others, like Nintendo's Breath of the Wild or Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed series, provide an escape from the real world and into familiar or far-off places. And even violent video games like The Last of Us 2 have become critically acclaimed for their level of inclusivity and accessibility, impactful storytelling and innovative game design.

But in recent years, regardless of genre, the pros and cons of video games and how they affect our brains have been a hot topic of discussion - particularly when discussing video game addiction. Defined as a mental health disorder by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2019, video game addiction is a controversial diagnosis that has left researchers debating on whether it should be classified as an addiction or mental illness at all, leaving many of us asking the question: Are video games good for you?

Pediatric behavioral health specialist Michael Manos, PhD, explains how video games affect your brain in good and bad ways, and when video game addiction can be a real problem.

Is gaming good for your brain?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children under 2 should have no screen time and kids ages 2 to 5 should get an hour or less of screen time per weekday and three hours on the weekend days (and Dr. Manos agrees that this is a good rule of thumb).

But a recent study of more than 2,200 children discovered that gamers who played more than 21 hours a week performed better than non-gamers when they were tested for impulsive behavior and memorization. In fact, researchers observed gamers had more activity than non-gamers in regions of their brains that were associated with attention and memory.

While the direct causes for these changes in children's brains are unknown, there have been a number of other positive findings related to positive effects of video games. In fact, there's even a video game treatment called EndeavorRX for children who have ADHD between the ages of 8 and 12. Here are some other benefits:

Increases brain matter

Much research has been done to show that video games impact brain plasticity (your brain's ability to change in response to learning) through the use of attentional control and reward processing. The idea here is that the more you're able to direct attention toward a certain task, the more stimulated you are by completing that task. From there, you can then move on to more complicated tasks. This is especially important when you consider that your brain's gray matter - the outer-most layer of your brain - contains billions of neurons and is responsible for controlling your movement, retaining your memories and regulating your emotions. Essentially, the more you learn, the more your brain can adapt.

"Like stimulants, video gaming can increase gray matter in the brain," says Dr. Manos. "Gray matter provides interconnectivity and allows parts of your brain to communicate with other parts of your brain and advance your self-perception."

Provides stimulating activity

Unlike TV shows and movies, video games are interactive and require attention to detail and task management. Take a role-playing game (RPG), like The Witcher or Mass Effect, for example: There's a long list of main quest objectives you have to complete in order to beat the game. But you also have a longer list of side objectives that are optional in order to flesh out the game's story and reward system.

For every task you complete, a game will usually reward you with experience points to advance your character's skill. You'll also get in-game trophies that symbolize your achievement. This relationship of risk and reward isn't specific to RPGs (you see it in simulation games like Animal Crossing, too) but it's particularly rewarding for completionists wanting to accomplish everything they can in a game before moving on to the next.

"A constant barrage of reinforcement occurs often and in succession with video games," explains Dr. Manos. "The danger of a particular situation and the resolution of a situation gives you a sense of accomplishment, which doesn't happen very much in real life. This makes video games incredibly stimulating."

Improves focus and visuomotor abilities like hand-eye coordination

Because of the level of detail and interaction, you often have to pay close attention to visual and auditory cues to accomplish certain tasks in a video game.

"When you're watching a video game, you've got to pay attention to every little thing that comes into your visual field and react to it," notes Dr. Manos. "Being able to visually contrast, being able to tell the difference between one thing and another, is also a skill that can be developed by playing video games."

We see this often in action-adventure games like Tomb Raider or Resident Evil, when you participate in quick-time events (or QTEs) where you have to push a button that matches a symbol on the screen within a very limited amount of time in order for something to happen.

But Dr. Manos cautions that although video games can improve focus and hand-eye coordination with mechanics like QTEs, there are real-world examples, like driving through fog, that present a greater opportunity for learning.

"If you're driving through fog, you have to be hyper-alert to see whatever is in front of you. That's a skill you really want to learn and that kind of thing can be improved in playing a video game," he states. "But just because a person can distinguish something in a video game, that doesn't mean they're going to be able to distinguish it in real life."

Improves ability for set-shifting and other cognitive functions

Set-shifting is the ability to move back and forth between different tasks in quick succession. The ability to start one thing and immediately pick up another is an important factor in determining your cognitive flexibility. We often mistake set-shifting as multitasking, but the ability to direct our attention from one thing to the next - like cooking dinner on the stove while listening to a podcast or pausing a video game to start a load of laundry - is an important skill to have.

"People switch tasks all the time," says Dr. Manos. "That executive function tends to get a little better when playing a video game."

Plus, other cognitive functions can be improved by video games, too. This 2020 overview of commercial video game studies suggests different types of video games improve different cognitive functions. Action video games, for instance, are highly associated with improving someone's ability to direct their attention and filter specific information. Traditional puzzle games, like Tetris, were associated with increased performance in navigation, perception and recognition.

Can video games be bad for you?

As you can see, the good effects of video games are broad, but it's hard to recreate those effects in real life outside of gaming. That's also true about the negative effects of video games and there's much to be discussed about exactly how these effects play out in other areas of your life.

The difficulty with research in the field of video games is that several studies contradict each other and it's challenging to determine the exact mechanisms behind what's being studied.

Some studies are small with a very narrow scope, like this one that suggests children who are physically active have faster reaction times than those who only play video games. Other studies are much broader in their approach, like this one that suggests people who play video games have an increased ability to learn from their experiences and manage conflict.

Part of what makes research into video games and their effect on brain function so controversial is that there's been a large body of research that's been slowly building over the last decade that suggests internet and video game addictions are a real problem, despite video game addiction only affecting 3.05% of the world's population.

Since The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders added the term "internet gaming disorder" in 2013, continued research has suggested that video game addiction is similar to other well-established addictions related to substance use disorders. This may partially be because the same parts of your brain, specifically those that release dopamine (the feel-good hormone), are activated when you have any addiction.

Specifically, people who play massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) are believed to be the most at risk for developing a video game addiction because of the ever-present pressure to level up their characters, participate in seasonal or time-sensitive limited events and constant access to in-game rewards.

"Video games are so stimulating that kids want to sustain engagement with them, as if that's life," says Dr. Manos. "The next stimulating event is always right around the corner, and you know you just have to get to that corner. That's what prompts addiction."

And while one study discovered an increase in concentration and visuomotor abilities like spatial awareness and hand-eye coordination in gamers who played MMORPGs, they also discovered structural brain differences and a loss of self-control.

To better understand the exact impact video games have on our brains, more research is needed to look at the specific cause and effects associated with gaming. In fact, some researchers are determined that a multidisciplinary approach is needed when studying the effects video games have on brain function because of advancements made in the game industry (with game analytics, game design and player experience), alongside advancements in the medical fields of cognitive science, machine learning and social sciences.

How do you know if you or your child is addicted to video games?

As with any addiction, when it starts taking over someone's life and altering their ability to participate in and enjoy day-to-day activities, there may be some reason for concern.

"When parents start noticing their kids are avoiding certain tasks, they're replacing certain activities, like playing with friends or participating in sports, with video games, you have to start getting concerned," states Dr. Manos. "When a child is willing to sacrifice or compromise a formerly high-interest activity in order to play a video game, then it's useful to begin observing how much time the child is actually playing and perhaps limit their playtime."

This is especially true if your child has emotional outbursts or gets physically aggressive when they're asked to pause the game or turn it off.

"It's not easy to take a child away from a video game," says Dr. Manos. "When emotional reactions occur when the child is deprived of a video game, that's a problem."

If you're concerned about your child's time spent playing video games, or if their behavior becomes worse over time, you can ask your healthcare provider or child therapist about whether or not they need cognitive behavioral therapy to help manage any underlying causes that might be leading to an over-reliance on video games.

But at the end of the day, if your child is content, continues to participate in social and physical activities with their friends and family members, and they're developing critical thinking skills necessary to analyze and navigate the world around them, there's no harm in allowing for occasional video game enjoyment.

"There have been some positive findings that when parents actually sit down and engage the child while they're playing video games by talking about it, watching it or even playing with their child, that it can be a very positive experience for parents and kids," says Dr. Manos.

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How much play time is too much? Video game addiction is a concern for many parents, but video games can have positive effects on your brain, too. A pediatric behavioral health specialist discusses the pros and cons of gaming.

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Video games are good for you!

For years video games have been criticised for making people more antisocial, overweight or depressed. But now researchers are finding that games can actually change us for the better and improve both our body and mind.

Games can help to develop physical skills. Pre-school children who played interactive games such as the ones available on Wii have been shown to have improved motor skills, for example they can kick, catch and throw a ball better than children who don’t play video games. A study of surgeons who do microsurgery in Boston found that those who played video games were 27 per cent faster and made 37 per cent fewer errors than those who didn't. Vision is also improved, particularly telling the difference between shades of grey. This is useful for driving at night, piloting a plane or reading X-rays.

Games also benefit a variety of brain functions, including decision-making. People who play action-based games make decisions 25 per cent faster than others and are no less accurate, according to one study. It was also found that the best gamers can make choices and act on them up to six times a second, four times faster than most people. In another study by researchers from the University of Rochester in New York, experienced gamers were shown to be able to pay attention to more than six things at once without getting confused, compared with the four that most people can normally keep in mind. Additionally, video games can also reduce gender differences. Scientists have found that women who play games are better able to mentally manipulate 3D objects.

There is also evidence that gaming can help with psychological problems. At the University of Auckland in New Zealand, researchers asked 94 young people diagnosed with depression to play a 3D fantasy game called SPARX and in many cases, the game reduced symptoms of depression more than conventional treatment. Another research team at Oxford University found that playing Tetris shortly after exposure to something very upsetting – in the experiment, a film of traumatic scenes of injury and death was used – can actually prevent people having disturbing flashbacks.

The effects are not always so positive, however. Indiana University researchers carried out brain scans on young men and found evidence that violent games can alter brain function after as little as a week of play, affecting regions in the brain associated with emotional control and causing more aggressive behaviour in the player. But Daphne Bavelier, one of the most experienced researchers in the field, says that the violent action games that often worry parents most may actually have the strongest beneficial effect on the brain. In the future, we may see many treatments for physical and neurological problems which incorporate the playing of video games.

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How to take control when asked a question

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The 3-2-1 Speaking Trick That Forces You To Stop Rambling!

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ielts listening practice test pdf download

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Given here are 15 IELTS Listening Practice Test PDF with answers and audio. You can download and save these online PDF listening practice tests for free

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Air traffic is increasingly leading to more noise, pollution, and airport constuction. One reason for this is the growth in low-cost passenger flights, often to holiday destinations.

Some people say that government should try to reduce air traffic by taxing it more heavily.

Do you agree or disagree?

So you need to brainstorm:

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:
Air traffic is increasingly leading to more noise, pollution, and airport constuction. One reason for this is the growth in low-cost passenger flights, often to holiday destinations. Some people say that government should try to reduce air traffic by taxing it more heavily. Do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge.

Write at least 250 words.
Low-cost Airline Tax - Model Answer
Over recent years there has been an enormous increase in the amount of air traffic around the world resulting in various problems, and a major cause of this has been the growth of low-cost airlines. Although some people believe that taxes should be increased for air travel, I disagree.

Those that support taxing airlines believe that this will result in a reduction in this type of travel and thus solve the problems of pollution, noise and construction. This is because a tax would make the cost of travelling more expensive, which will, they claim, lead to a decrease in demand. Proponents of this solution believe that taxes are fair because everyone has to pay them and it is a workable solution that will have the additional bonus of providing an income for the government.

However, there are a number of reasons why this is not the right course of action. Firstly, a tax is not fair because it will adversely affect people on lower incomes. Such a tax would have to be a fixed amount paid equally whether you are rich or poor, which means that those on lower incomes would find it more difficult to travel, but it would likely have little effect on the lives of those with a higher income. In addition, such a tax would not work. For example, we have seen taxes increase in most countries on cars, but this has had little affect, with car use continuing to grow.

To sum up, it is evident that introducing heavy taxes on air travel is not fair or workable. If we continue to explore alternatives, we can continue to enjoy the benefits that air travel offers.

More Agree / Disagree Essays:

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Airline Tax Essay: Would taxing air travel reduce pollution?

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Airline Tax Essay for IELTS. Practice an agree and disagree essay on the topic of taxing airlines to reduce low-cost air traffic. You are asked to decide if you agree or disagree with taxing airlines in order to reduce the problems caused.

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B2 First (FCE) Practice Online: Use of English (Tests)

B2 First (FCE) Practice Online: Reading (Tests)

B2 First (FCE) Practice Online: Listening (Tests)

B2 First (FCE) Practice Tests: PDF

B2 First (FCE) Practice Online: Use of English (Tests)

What's in Part 1?
Part 1 consists of a text in which there are eight gaps (plus one gap as an example). Each gap represents a missing word or phrase. The text is followed by eight sets of four words or phrases, each set corresponding to a gap. Candidates have to choose which one of the four words or phrases in the set fills the gap correctly.
Need more practice tests?
What's in Part 2?
Part 2 consists of a text in which there are eight gaps (plus one gap as an example). In this part, as there are no sets of words from which to choose the answers, candidates have to think of a word that will fill the gap correctly.
Need more practice tests?
What's in Part 3?
Part 3 consists of a text containing eight gaps (plus one gap as an example). At the end of some of the lines, and separated from the text, there is a stem word in capital letters. Candidates need to form an appropriate word from given stem words to fill each gap.
Need more practice tests?
What's in Part 4?
Six separate items, each with a lead-in sentence and a gapped second sentence to be completed in two to five words, one of which is a given 'key' word.
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Sign up, resolve the tests and see what results you get.

B2 First (FCE) Practice Online: Reading (Tests)

What's in Part 5?
Part 5 consists of a text, followed by six 4-option multiple-choice questions which test the understanding of content and text organisation. The text may be taken from, for example, a modern novel or an article.
Need more practice tests?
What's in Part 6?
Part 6 consists of one text, for example, an extract from a magazine, from which six sentences have been removed and placed in jumbled order after the text, together with a seventh sentence that does not fit in any of the gaps. Candidates are required to decide from where in the text each sentence has been removed.
Need more practice tests?
What's in Part 7?
Part 7 consists of one long text or up to six shorter texts, preceded by 10 questions. Candidates are required to locate the specific information which matches the questions.
Need more practice tests?

B2 First (FCE) Practice Online: Listening (Tests)

What's in Part 1?
The eight questions in this part of the paper are each preceded by a context sentence which is read out on the recording. The candidates then have time to read each question before hearing the recording twice.
Need more practice tests?
What's in Part 2?
The 10 questions in this part of the paper take the form of incomplete sentences. The questions follow the order of the information in the listening text. Candidates need to listen to the text and complete the sentences.
Need more practice tests?
What's in Part 3?
In this part, candidates listen to five short texts, each with a different speaker, which are related in some way. For example, they may all be speaking about aspects of the same subject, such as travel, or about similar experiences, such as journeys. Candidates choose the option from a set of eight that matches
what each speaker says.
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What's in Part 4?
The seven questions in this part of the paper take the form of 3-option multiple-choice questions. The questions follow the order of the interaction on the recording. Texts are usually interviews or discussions featuring two speakers.
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Would you pass B2 First (FCE)?
Sign up, resolve the tests and see what results you get.

B2 First (FCE) Practice Tests: PDF
Need more practice tests?

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Sign up, resolve the tests and see what results you get.

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5 Free Practice Tests (Online & PDF) | B2 First (FCE) | engxam.com

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5 Free Practice Tests (Online & PDF) | B2 First (FCE) Reading, Use of English, Listening Practice Tests (online & pdf) Succeed in your Cambridge exam and advance your career and education

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B2 First Speaking test - Victoria and Edward | Cambridge English

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Writing will be the second part of your Certificate in Advanced English exam. CAE Writing is 90 minutes long and it consists of two parts.

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Interview (part 1) 2 minutes: The examiner will ask you questions individually and you need to answer with extended answers or about 30 seconds. The questions are simple but you need to elaborate your answers and make them more interesting to show you can develop, when we develop answers we show confidence with language use. Link everything to your opinion and personal experiences. The important thing is to show that you want to participate and are willing to speak.

There are two phases. The first the examiners will introduce themselves and then ask for your names. You need to give a short response to permit the personal information. After they will ask you where you are from, again, they desire a short but complete answer.

EXAMPLE PHASE ONE EXERCISE:

Good morning/afternoon/evening. My name is... and this is...
And your names are? Can I have your mark sheets, please?
Thank you.

(Candidate A) Where are you from?

(Candidate B) Where do you live?

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FIRST (B2) SPEAKING (PART 1): STARTER QUESTIONS

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Interview (part 1) 2 minutes: The examiner will ask you questions individually and you need to answer with extended answers or about 30 seconds. The questions are simple but you need to elaborate your answers and make them more interesting to show you can develop, when we develop answers we show confidence with language use.

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What is the B2 First Exam? How many parts?

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What is the B2 First Exam? How many parts?

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B2 First is a test of all areas of language ability.

The updated exam (for exam sessions from January 2015) is made up of four papers developed to test your English language skills. You can see exactly what's in each paper below.

The Speaking test is taken face to face, with two candidates and two examiners. This creates a more realistic and reliable measure of your ability to use English to communicate.

The formats below are the same for both the paper-based and computer-based exams.

Reading and Use of English (1 hour 15 minutes)
See sample paper

Shows you can deal confidently with different types of text, such as fiction, newspapers and magazines. Tests your use of English with tasks that show how well you can control your grammar and vocabulary.

2 parts

Requires you to be able to produce two different pieces of writing, such as letters, reports, reviews and essays.

Requires you to be able to follow and understand a range of spoken materials, such as news programmes, presentations and everyday conversations.

Speaking
(14 minutes per pair of candidates; 20 minutes per group of three)
See sample paper

4 parts

Shows how good your spoken English is as you take part in conversation by asking/answering questions and discussing topics. Your Speaking test will be face to face with one or two other candidates and two examiners. One of the examiners (who could be online, examining remotely) talks to you and the other examiner listens. This makes your test more realistic and more reliable. Examiners may use their mobile phones for entering marks using an app.

openbook What's in the Reading and Use of English paper?

The B2 First Reading and Use of English paper is in seven parts and has a mix of text types and questions.

For Parts 1 to 4, you read a range of texts and do grammar and vocabulary tasks.

For Parts 5 to 7, you read a series of texts and answer questions that test your reading ability and show that you can deal with a variety of different types of texts.
Summary

Length of texts:

About 2,200 words to read in total.

Texts may be from:

Newspapers and magazines, journals, books (fiction and non-fiction), promotional and informational material.

Part 1 (Multiple-choice cloze) Part 2 (Open cloze) Part 3 (Word formation) Part 4 (Key word transformations) Part 5 (Multiple choice) Part 6 (Gapped text) Part 7 (Multiple matching)
compose What's in the Writing paper?

In the two parts of the B2 First Writing paper, you have to show that you can write different types of text in English.
Summary

Time allowed:

1 hour 20 minutes

Number of questions:

Part 1: one compulsory question, Part 2: one question from a choice of three

Types of task:

Articles, email, essay, letter, report, review.

Part 1 (Compulsory question) Part 2 (Situationally based writing task)
playlist What's in the Listening paper?

The B2 First Listening paper has four parts. For each part you have to listen to a recorded text or texts and answer some questions. You hear each recording twice.
Summary

Time allowed:

About 40 minutes

Recordings may be from:

Monologues: answer phone messages, radio broadcasts and features, news, public announcements, stories and anecdotes, lectures and talks; or interacting speakers: conversations, interviews, discussions, radio plays.

Part 1 (Multiple choice) Part 2 (Sentence completion) Part 3 (Multiple matching) Part 4 (Multiple choice)
megaphone What's in the Speaking paper?

The B2 First Speaking test has four parts and you take it together with another candidate.

There are two examiners. One of the examiners asks you questions and gives you the booklet with things to talk about. The other examiner listens to what you say.
Summary Part 1 (Interview)

What's in Part 1?

Conversation with the examiner. The examiner asks questions and you may have to give information about your interests, studies, career, etc.

What do I have to practise?

Giving information about yourself and expressing your opinion about various topics.

How long do I have to speak?

2 minutes

Part 2 (Long turn)

What's in Part 2?

The examiner gives you two photographs and asks you to talk about them. You have to speak for 1 minute without interruption and the interlocutor then asks the other candidate to comment on your photographs for about 30 seconds.
The other candidate receives a different set of photographs and you have to listen and comment when they have finished speaking. The question you have to answer about your photographs is written at the top of the page to remind you what you should talk about.

What do I have to practise?

Talking on your own about something: comparing, describing, expressing opinions, speculating.

How long do I have to speak?

1 minute per candidate

Part 3 (Collaborative task)

What's in Part 3?

Conversation with the other candidate. The examiner gives you some material and a task to do. You have to talk with the other candidate and make a decision.

What do I have to practise?

Exchanging ideas, expressing and justifying opinions, agreeing and/or disagreeing, suggesting, speculating, evaluating, reaching a decision through negotiation, etc.

How long do we have to speak?

3 minutes (a 2-minute discussion followed by a 1-minute decision-making task)

Part 4 (Discussion)

What's in Part 4?

Further discussion with the other candidate, guided by questions from the examiner, about the topics or issues raised in the task in Part 3.

What do I have to practise?

Expressing and justifying opinions, agreeing and/or disagreeing.

How long do we have to speak?

4 minutes

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What is in the B2 First (FCE) exam? Information about the Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking papers for computer and paper-based tests.

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From July 2020, some of our IELTS test centres will start delivering the IELTS Speaking test via video calls. This means more flexibility and more availability of IELTS Speaking tests.

You will take the Video-Call Speaking test at an official IELTS test centre with the same high standard of identity verification. The test will be exactly the same as the in-person Speaking test in terms of content, scoring, timing, level of difficulty, question format and security arrangements. Delivered by an IELTS Speaking Examiner, the video-call Speaking test will maintain the face-to-face feature of the in-person Speaking test.

This test is currently available in Albania, Egypt, Hong Kong, Malaysia, North Macedonia, Oman, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.

For more information, please contact us.

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The British Council offers useful and insightful IELTS information to help you prepare for your test. Learn about the IELTS test format here

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IELTS free writing tests British Council

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IELTS free writing tests British Council

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You will be allowed 1 hour to complete two tasks in the IELTS Academic Writing test.

The two parts of this practice Writing test are presented on two separate web pages. Make sure you move swiftly from one page to the next so that your practice is as realistic as possible. If you prefer to work offline, download the test paper.

In the actual test you will do your writing in an answer booklet.

Timing

The total time allowed for the IELTS Academic Writing test is 60 minutes. Time yourself and allow just one hour to complete both parts of the test.

Task 2 contributes twice as much as task 1 to the Writing score.

Writing task 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on task 1

write in a formal style

write at least 150 words

Writing task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on task 2

write in a formal style

write at least 250 words

Instructions to candidates

In the actual test you will be given the following instructions:

do not open this question paper until you are told to do so

write your name and candidate number in the spaces at the top of this page

read the instructions for each task carefully

answer both of the tasks

write at least 150 words for task 1

write at least 250 words for task 2

write your answers in the answer booklet

write clearly in pen or pencil; you may make alterations, but make sure your work is easy to read

At the end of the test, hand in both the question paper and your answer booklet.

Review

Once you have completed both tasks, review your work. Download the model answers to see good examples of how to complete the Writing test.

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Free Online IELTS Academic Writing Practice Tests | Take IELTS

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If you're looking to complete an IELTS Academic Writing exam then try out these free online IELTS Writing practice tests.

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For questions 1-8, read the text below and decide which answer ( А, В, C or D) best fits each gap. There is an example at the beginning (0).

Our obsession with recording every detail of our happiest moments could be 0 damaging our ability to remember them, according to new research.

Dr Linda Henkel, from Fairfield University, Connecticut, described this as the 'photo-taking impairment effect'. She said, 'People often whip out their cameras almost mindlessly to a moment, to the point that they are missing what is happening in front of them.' When people rely on technology to remember for them - on the camera to record the event and thus not needing to to it fully themselves - it can have a negative on how well they remember their experiences.

In Dr Henkel's experiment, a group of university students were on a tour of a museum and asked to either photograph or try to remember objects on display. The next day each student's memory was tested. The results showed that people were less in recognising the objects they had photographed with those they had only looked at.
For this task: Answers with explanations :: Vocabulary

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CAE Reading and Use of English Practice Test 1 - EngExam.info

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The old, print-friendly test CAE Reading and Use of English Part 1 For questions 1-8, read the text below and decide which answer (А, В, C or D) best fits

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Roadmap to CAE Speaking Success!

Visit Splended Speaking and download 'Roadmap to CAE Speaking Success!' our FREE 34-page ebook, our 10-step programme on successful CAE Speaking exam preparation plus news of our latest products and services:

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Advice and guidance for the CAE Speaking paper

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Roadmap to CAE Speaking Success! Visit Splended Speaking and download 'Roadmap to CAE Speaking Success!' our FREE 34-page ebook, our 10-step programme on successful CAE Speaking exam preparation plus news of our latest products and services:

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Step 3: Get Ready for Part 2

I hope you found our previous email looking at showcasing your English useful. It's now time to turn our attention to the task that many students dread - the Part 2 Long Turn.

If you need a reminder - Part 2 is your chance to take the stage and talk for about 1 minute on two out of three photographs that the interlocutor will give you.

You'll be given instructions like:

"In this part of the test, I'm going to give each of you three pictures. I'd like you to talk about two of them on your own for about a minute, and also to answer a question briefly about your partner's pictures. .......
I'd like you to compare two of the pictures, and say what ......., and how ......."

Tip 1: Notice there are TWO parts to the task.
I'd like you to compare two of the pictures, and say what ......., and how .......
Make sure you time your talk in such a way that you're able to answer both parts. Why is this important?

Tip 2: At least one of the parts will require you to speculate. This requires higher level language and doing this effectively will demonstrate your proficiency in English.

Tip 3: Don't talk about all three photos! You only need to focus on two.

Tip 4: Try to signpost your talk with relevant expressions to help the examiner follow your train of thought.

Unit 4 of CAE Speaking Success looks at how to spend the few seconds you have before you start planning your Part 2 Long Turn. Find out more about CAE Speaking Success here:
https://www.flo-joe.co.uk/cae/students/speaking/cae_speaking_success.htm

Don't miss our next email in 4 days time when we'll look at the importance of speculating in the Part 2 Long Turn.

Peter Travis
Co-Founder Flo-Joe
Founder Splendid Learning

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Step 3: Get Ready for Part 2 I hope you found our previous email looking at showcasing your English useful. It's now time to turn our attention to the task that many students dread - the Part 2 Long Turn.

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This free online level test will give you an approximate indication of the English level you are working towards or completing.

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Practice tests for Cambridge English First (FCE) Reading and Use of English

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Find a range of lesson plans to use with adult learners at intermediate level. All of our lessons are designed around engaging themes that are engaging and relevant to adult learners of English, giving students an opportunity to develop their English language and skills in motivating and enjoyable ways.

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English news and easy articles for students of English

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News in Levels « World News for Students of English

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We write news in three different levels of English. We want to help you understand English more. Now all students can enjoy reading and listening to news.

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C1 Advanced Speaking test - Raphael and Maude | Cambridge English

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It is known that grammar is the backbone of language. In the same way, a strong command of the English language is highly attributed to the extent of one's grammar knowledge. Therefore, students interested in taking the IELTS test must be well versed in their grammar proficiency.

Interestingly, grammar for IELTS has no dedicated section. However, good grammar command is essential to scoring high in all the test sections, namely reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

Importance of Grammar for IELTS

The role of grammar in IELTS is extremely important since the test assesses the language abilities of individuals. IELTS being an English language proficiency test, test takers must ensure that the responses they provide are written or stated with correct grammar.

Grammar is a crucial constituent in all four sections of the test. However, it plays a major role in the writing and speaking sections. This is because these are the sections where grammar structures are put into use to express ideas. So, stronger grammar knowledge will ensure that the applicant is fluent in understanding what the topic asks and what others want to say right away.

IELTS Grammar Syllabus

Grammar for IELTS typically does not have any syllabus. However, it is advisable that students go through these related topics for a better grasp of the subject:

Grammar for IELTS Speaking Section

The speaking section in the IELTS test lasts for around 11 to 14 minutes. The section primarily aims at testing an individual's speaking skills. The questions may range from general to personal to speaking about a specific topic.

Test takers may also have to speak on diverse topics, some of which can be abstract too. It is understandable to have a bit of mother tongue influence while speaking. However, one's grammar should be top-notch and must not indicate errors, whether small or big. Further, the examiner evaluates candidates based on confidence, pronunciation, and fluency.

Grammar for IELTS Listening Section

When it comes to the listening section, it comprises 40 total questions. This section contains four recorded monologues, conversations, and texts. To start off, candidates are made to listen to these recordings through the voice of various native speakers. This tests their aptitude in understanding the English language under various circumstances.

The IELTS listening section focuses on the candidate's ability to understand detailed factual information and ideas other than the pertaining attitude of the speakers. What makes this section even more challenging is the various accent recordings.

Hence, command over IELTS grammar must not be undermined, as it is the most important thing that will help candidates comprehend the recordings in a short time and produce appropriate responses.

Grammar for IELTS Reading Section

The reading section comprises a total of three parts. They include passages that test the candidate's reading skills. In this section, the test takers have to answer 40 questions on various topics within 60 minutes. The test contents include skimming, reading for the gist, and understanding the logical squabbles in the text.

The section indeed seems easy. However, it is tricky as the candidate is required to evaluate the writers' opinion, besides considering the purpose of writing that particular text. So, to do so, candidates need to understand the text clearly. In this regard, proper knowledge of English grammar can help individuals answer questions with ease.

Grammar for IELTS Writing Section

The IELTS writing section contains two tasks, which the candidate should complete within 60 minutes. In task 1, the candidate will be provided with diagrams, graphs and a few other pieces of key information. Based on these resources, they need to describe the data and provide a conclusion.

Further, in task 2, candidates are asked to write an essay, which must be of a high standard. Meaning, it should be written properly with no grammar errors. This is where grammar knowledge comes into use. Grammar for the IELTS writing section is undoubtedly the most important part through which an individual's writing ability is tested.

8 English Grammar Rules to Get a Higher IELTS Score

Here are a few grammar for IELTS rules that candidates aiming to score high in their IELTS exam must follow:
The Simple Aspect
This is the first and foremost rule that all candidates must follow. In the speaking section of the IELTS test, candidates are asked to answer questions about themselves. Here, they will have to make sure that they are using the correct verb tense and aspect.

Hence, individuals must know what simple and continuous verb tenses are. If one wants to talk about ordinary things, the tense will be simple. On the other hand, when speaking about something that is happening at the time of speaking, one should use the present continuous tense.

Candidates might also need this grammar rule in part 1 of the writing section when describing the graphs and diagrams. Here, one would primarily use the past simple tense to point out the things that have happened in the past.
The Present Perfect and Simple Past Verb Tenses
In the speaking section of the IELTS test, candidates may have to talk about various past events, either about themselves or for any other topic. In addition, they will also have to decide whether the actions are still relevant in the present or not.

Generally, individuals have more time to think about this when writing. But, speaking about such a topic within a given time might be a tough task. But, practicing the use of present perfect and simple past verb tenses can help one pass this section without much difficulty.
Passive Voice
Individuals can use the passive voice to sound more formal and impersonal. One can form the passive voice by adding the verb 'to be' in the given tense and past participle. For example, instead of 'write', one should use 'written'.

Now, in the IELTS test, there are parts where one might be required to write the sentence in a formal tone. For instance, the report writing section. This will indicate that the candidate is fluent in the topic and maintains the tone of the answer.
Modal Verbs
Individuals can use modal verbs to express various nuances, such as degrees of certainty.

For example:

Could, may and might are called modal verbs. One can use these words to refer to uncertain scenarios of the future.

With regards to the IELTS exam, grammar for IELTS regarding modal verbs comes into use in the reading and listening sections. Individuals with a better understanding of the questions in these sections stand a better chance of scoring high on the test.

In the speaking section, one may want to use modal verbs in part 3 when the examiner asks to extend the discussion from oneself to other aspects. Additionally, modal verbs can also be used to express probability about a given situation when talking somewhat abstractly. Mastering the use of modal verbs will make the sentence more flowery and catch the examiner's attention.
Definite Article
The definite article or 'the' is used to speak about things or people that are already known to the speaker. An important thing to note here is that 'the' can also be used before ordinal numbers, superlatives, and countries that have a plural in them.

When writing for the IELTS exam, candidates must leave sometime in the end to proofread their papers. If the confusion on whether to use 'the' or not still persists, they should utilise the extra time, in the end, to think about their mistakes.
Adjective Comparison
Candidates must use adjectives as often as they can to describe things, people or a situation. This will prove that the individual has a wide range of vocabulary in writing and speaking. Additionally, individuals may also need to compare the adjectives using superlatives and comparatives.
Eradicate Frequent Spelling Mistakes
Most students tend to make frequent spelling errors. For example, writing an extra 'l' in adverbs or adding 'ing' to 'ed' verbs. To eradicate such errors, candidates must practice as much as possible and pace up solving previous years' question papers to grasp the test structure better.
Sentence Construction
Candidates need to construct a sentence to make it sound meaningful properly. This holds the utmost importance in the writing section of the IELTS test. Moreover, for proper sentence construction, correct grammar is essential. This is because grammar is the base upon which a language stands.

Best Resources to Prepare for IELTS Grammar

Although the resources to prepare for grammar for IELTS are plenty, mentioned below are the best books that candidates can follow for better command of the English language:

Basic English Grammar, B. Azar

Grammar for IELTS, D. Hopkins, P. Cullens

Oxford Practice Grammar Intermediate, J. Eastwood

Achieve IELTS Grammar and Vocabulary

Oxford Practice Grammar Advanced, G. Yule

Get IELTS Band 9 Grammar Secrets

Cobuild English Grammar [Advanced]

Collins Grammar For IELTS [Advanced]

How is Grammar for IELTS Evaluated?

The table below provides relevant information regarding the evaluation structure of examiners for lexical resources and grammar:

Tips to Follow the Grammar for IELTS

Candidates willing to master English grammar must start with learning the basics. Upon understanding the basics of a language, acing a test becomes a cakewalk. Here are a few tips that can help candidates ace the grammar for IELTS:

Make correct use of tenses while speaking or writing in daily life.

Try to use passive voice while speaking. Do constant practice of changing active voice to passive using practice modules. Also, remember to change the tone according to the situation. This is because using passive voice everywhere may not fall in place with the situation.

Candidates must not make unnecessary usage of modal verbs, as it indicates uncertainty.

Craft well-structured sentences using proper articles and adjectives.

Most candidates make mistakes in adding proper prepositions. Adequate knowledge of prepositions is necessary to make meaningful sentences while speaking and writing.

Proper grammar for the IELTS exam is essential to getting a decent band score, which is a basic criterion for studying in an English-speaking country. The choice of a candidate's answer depends upon the grammar, which can affect the grammar score. So, know the basic grammar rules, follow the tips, and stay all informed to ace that test.

Further, if you are worried about the huge expenses of studying abroad, you can put your faith in Leap Scholar. Since its inception, we have funded more than 3000 students and would not let you drop your dreams due to budget concerns. Get a suitable loan offer today with a quick 10-minute online process.
Frequently Asked Questions 1. Do I have to take all the sections of the test on the same day?
The reading, writing, and listening components of the test are immediately completed with no breaks in between. Candidates generally take the speaking test up to 7 days either after or before the test date. This depends upon the centre. Many test centres also ask the candidates whether they would like to complete all four sections on the same day or not.
2. When will I receive my test results?
The test report will be available to candidates after 13 days of giving the test.
3. How soon will I be eligible to re-sit for the test?
There is no limit upon retaking the test. However, it is advisable to do additional study before retaking the IELTS test.
4. What happens if I am not satisfied with my results?
If you are not happy with the marks, you can apply for an Enquiry on Results within 6 weeks of receiving the result. In addition, you will also have to pay an enquiry fee, which will be refunded if your band score changes.

Experienced IELTS prep trainer and education management industry veteran. Specializes in public speaking, international education, market research, mentoring, and management.

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Grammar For IELTS: 2022 IELTS Grammar Guide & Rules You Must Know - Leap Scholar

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It is known that grammar is the backbone of language. In the same way, a strong command of the English language is highly attributed to the extent of one's grammar knowledge. Therefore, students interested in taking the IELTS test must be well versed in their grammar proficiency.

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Missed a day?

Get access to our 'Word of the Day' revision exercises with "CAE Exam Success Plus!".

Build an organised record of vocabulary with these worksheets.

Self study mark sheets to help you keep track of new words.

Your Feedback

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A daily phrasal verb collocation and word formation quiz to help students with the CAE Use of English Part 3 task

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Grammar Exercises - Advanced. Page Two. | esl-lounge Student

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What is collocation?

This refers to words (often two or three) that are commonly placed together.

There may be grammatical reasons for this, but there may not be. It may be that through long-term usage, it just sounds correct.

It is one of the most important things to understand and practice when you learn the English language.

Here is an example of some common verb-noun combinations to illustrate:

You can't say ' do the bed' as these words do not collocate together.

Why are they important for IELTS?

The examiner will be judging you on this. For example, here is what the IELTS public band descriptors say for an IELTS band 7 for lexis (vocabulary):

"uses less common lexical items with some awareness of style and collocation"

So to achieve a band 7 in this criteria, not only do you need to be using some less common words, you also need to show to some extent that you know what other words these less common words are usually used with.

However, this is important for any band - if you have a bad grasp of them, this will have a negative impact on your writing and your speaking.

How do I learn them?

They are not something you can really sit down and say, "Ok, I'm going to learn collocations today".

The important thing is that when you learn a new word, you learn what words are commonly used in combination with it. This is a common approach in English language course books.

To take a simple example, let's say you are fairly new to English and you are learning the word ' to have'. You may be presented with these phrases in your coursebook to help you learn the word:

So you are not just learning the word ' have', you are learning chunks of language. You are also learning words that are usually used with the word ' have'.

Learning words this way is much more effective than learning words in isolation. If you learn words on their own, you are sure to make mistakes when you try to use them in sentences.

Here are some more complex examples using the word'interest' to show you the types of collocation you may find for a word:

adjective + interest
considerable interest
deep interest
great interest
historical interest
long-term interest
musical interest
vested interest
financial interest
business interest

He has a vested interest in the future of the business.

I have varied musical interests - I like jazz, pop, classical and reggae.

adverb + interest
greatly interested
deeply interested
particularly interested
really interested
very interested
quite interested

He is deeply interested in religion.

I'm very interested in studying abroad.

noun + interest
interest rate
interest payment
interest charge
interest group

There are political interest groups in my country that want to change the constitution.

preposition + interest
out of interest
for interest
of interest

I had never heard of the film before but I went to see it out of interest.

interest + preposition
interest among
interest from
interest in

His speech generated interest from many people.

verb + interest
take an interest
have an interest
show an interest
lose interest
attract interest
generate interest
spark interest
be of interest
maintain interest
share an interest
pay interest

I started learning to play the guitar but I lost interest very quickly.

My friends and I share many interests so we get along very well.

So as you can see, there are many words that are commonly used with ' interest' in different contexts. If you start to use the wrong words with it, this will be very noticeable.

If you say this, for example, it will be very obvious to the examiner that it is wrong:

I'm completely interested on modern art.

' completely' does not collocate with 'interest' in this sentence, and nor does ' on'. It could instead be said like this:

I'm particularly interested in modern art.

Someone using sentences like this (consistently of course) would achieve a high band score for their lexis because they are demonstrating a good understanding of which words should go together.

Another way to improve your knowledge of what words collocate is reading. The more you read, the more you will notice which words commonly go together.

There are some links to quizzes on the right hand side. More will be added in due course.

If you haven't already signed up to receive automatic updates to the site, do so below and you will then be notified when any exercises are posted.

Band 7+ eBooks

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You may also be interested in:

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This refers to words (often two or three) that are commonly placed together. There may be grammatical reasons for this, but there may not be. It may be that through long-term usage, it just sounds correct. It is one of the most important things to understand and practice when you learn the English language.

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15 of the Best Dictionary Apps for Your Every Nerdy Need | Book Riot

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Languages are hard. As soon as you think you've mastered one grammar rule, a dozen exceptions pop up. When you think you've learned the definition of a word, you find out it has seven other connotations. Luckily, there are plenty of superb dictionary apps that are here to help.

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B2 Grammar lessons and exercises - Test-English

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Pre-advanced grammar lessons and exercises to help you prepare your B2 English exam.

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English Level Test PDF Download Free - With Answers

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English level test pdf download free 2021

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If you are learning English and would like a few podcasts to help, there are loads of choices. Podcasts are just one of many fun and effective language activities you can include in your routine.

The 7 best English podcasts for beginners

Learn English Podcast from the British Council

The Learn English Podcast is excellent for beginners. It is aimed at English language learners from A1 to B1 levels and episodes are discussion-based and cover common everyday situations . Every episode comes with a transcript and a support pack with exercises to test your understanding. There's even a free app!

If you want to learn British English , this is a great place to start. Not sure yet whether American or British English is for you? Check out our guide to the differences between the two.

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

British Council website

Themes

British culture

Voice of America: Learning English

If you want to learn American English , then Voice of America: Learning English might be a better choice for you. It's a clear website that offers different podcasts for beginner, intermediate, and advanced ESL learners.

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

Voice of America website

Themes

American culture

Health and lifestyle

Technology

Language learning

6-Minute English from the BBC

Are you short on time? 6-Minute English fits into even the busiest schedules. No excuses! 6-minute English is a news podcast produced every week and is aimed at intermediate speakers. Each episode comes with a list of vocabulary, a thought-provoking question, and a transcript so you can follow along in case you miss some words or phrases.

The English here is spoken at a slightly slower speed than usual, making it much easier to understand. In addition, there are hundreds of episodes going back to 2014. Try listening to one six-minute episode per day, and your vocabulary will grow in no time.

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

Themes

British culture

The English We Speak

The English We Speak is produced every week by the BBC . This series is even shorter than 6-Minute English , with episodes only 3 minutes long. Each episode focuses on a different English idiom or expression used in the UK, such as "play a blinder," "take the biscuit" or "to cut a long story short."

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

Themes

British culture

English Learning for Curious Minds by Leonardo English

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

Leonardo English website (to access transcripts, subtitles & vocabulary)

Themes

British culture

Science & technology

Language learning

All Ears English

All Ears English is another great option if you already have an intermediate level of English and want a little more entertainment. Unlike Luke's English Podcast , All Ears is in American English and is presented by two ESL teachers, Lindsay from Boston and Michelle from New York City. The All Ears team also includes two IELTS specialists, Jessica and Aubrey, who feature in some episodes.

In very short episodes, they discuss American culture , and explain confusing English expressions in a friendly and fun way . Their motto is "connection not perfection" so expect a focus on everyday English as it is spoken in the real world !

Another brilliant feature of this podcast is that Lindsay and Michelle specialize in training people for the IELTS . They produced the show with the IELTS in mind, so anyone about to sit the exam will find it especially useful. If taking the IELTS or moving to the US is your motivation for learning, you might also be interested in our guide to speaking American English.

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

All Ears English website

Themes

American culture

English Grammar

Language learning

Espresso English

The Espresso English podcast is made for beginners and intermediate-level learners. It is presented by Shayna who is the teacher at Espresso English and everything from vocabulary to grammar to pronunciation is covered in the 350+ episodes.

One of the fantastic features of this podcast is the fact that there are so many episodes and they cover many common problems that ESL learners run into, for example staying motivated or how to use phrasal verbs . The show features American English and if you're short on time, don't worry, they only last 5-10 minutes.

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

Espresso English website

Themes

Language learning

Pronunciation

7 brilliant advanced English podcasts by native speakers

The Joe Rogan Experience

No list of English podcasts would be complete without mentioning Joe Rogan. The Joe Rogan Experience is one of the biggest podcasts globally, and in 2020, the show signed an exclusive deal with Spotify worth a reported $100 million.

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

Themes

American culture

is a great choice for English learners who want an insight into the culture of the USA. It is a mixture of journalism and storytelling, focusing on real-life tales from citizens of all regions of the country. The stories are varied and original. One episode was taped for 24 hours in an all-night restaurant; another interviewed students at a high school which experienced a mass shooting. It has won a host of awards and is consistently rated among the most popular in the US.

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

Themes

American culture

Crime Junkie

There are plenty of podcasts dedicated to the "true crime" trend, but Crime Junkie is the most popular. In each 50-minute episode, the presenters discuss a different murder. They go into gruesome detail and give their theories on any unsolved aspects of the crime. It will make you shiver, but fans say it's truly addictive. Hopefully, you won't need to use any of the English vocabulary you learn with this podcast!

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

Crime Junkie Website

Themes

American culture

Overheard at National Geographic

Episodes last around twenty minutes, and topics include zombie mice, the ethics of animal selfies, and underwater pyramids. It's perfect if you want to be amazed at the strangeness of our planet.

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

National Geographic website

Themes

The Writer's Voice

In this podcast, the week's story is read aloud by its writer. The published work captures a wide range of life experiences across the United States and beyond. Some of them are quite hard to follow, but most make for very enjoyable listening.

It's a great way to enjoy some of the best new fiction in the country. Like a bedtime story for grownups! If you love literature, you might also be interested in our guide to finding free English audiobooks online.

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

New Yorker website

Themes

Literature

Comedy Bang Bang

When learning any new language , some people say that jokes are one of the last things you can expect to master. If you want to test this theory, try the Comedy Bang Bang podcast.

It has been running for ten years and very popular pretty much as long as podcasts have existed. Episodes begin as celebrity interviews but soon descend into chaos. Expect sketches, silly catchphrases, and improvisation games. If you are new to the show, the annual review episodes are a good place to start.

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

Earwolf website

Themes

American culture

New episodes of the are published twice a day and report on issues that affect the whole planet. As you might have guessed, this show is beneficial if you would like to learn British English .

Where to listen

Apple Podcasts

Google Podcasts

Themes

World affairs

Business English

6 effective strategies to learn English using podcasts

Start with podcasts that focus on learning

Listen with the text accompaniment

Many of the best podcasts designed for studying English come with a written transcript which can also be downloaded. Try reading along to a podcast, and you'll be learning how to read and pronounce simultaneously.

It is very difficult to tell how English words are pronounced just by seeing them written down. In fact, this is one of the most frustrating things about learning English . Reading along to a podcast is an easy way to get used to strange English pronunciation rules. It's also great to make sure you don't miss anything important.

Make a note of new vocabulary

Then, if you aren't sure what they mean, pause the audio and look them up. Since you have already heard these words in context and made an effort to absorb them, there is a good chance you will remember them.

Slow it down

Don't multitask

Usually, one of the benefits of podcasts is that they do not require your full attention. However, if you are using them as study tools, it's probably best to forget that.

Put them on in the background

After all, rules were made to be broken!

To get the absolute most out of podcasts as an educational tool, you should give them your full attention. If you are just using them to gain more contact with spoken English, however, you can ignore that advice from time to time. Having a podcast playing in the background will help you get familiar with the sounds and rhythms of the language.

Conclusion

We hope you are feeling inspired and ready to fill up your phone with plenty of educational audio. If you want even more tips on language learning , check out the Preply podcast , where we speak to expert language learners and polyglots for their top tips.

If you like learning with podcasts and want to take even more value from them, why not use them in an English lesson with one of Preply's expert tutors or discover the Preply Business corporate English training?

That way, you'll get to practice all the new vocabulary you learn in the most effective way possible - by using it in a conversation with a native English speaker .

Frequently asked questions

Does listening to a podcast improve English?

Yes, listening to English-speaking podcasts is a great way to augment your English learning. If you want to boost English learning with podcasts, you need to be conscious and listen intently throughout. Playing back parts that you don't understand and writing down words you don't recognize will help you expand your vocabulary.

Which podcast should I listen to to improve my English?

The Learn English Podcast from the British Council is an excellent place to start. In this podcast, they cover everyday situations and conversations, and they provide written text to go along with each podcast so you can read along as well.

How do you learn English with a podcast?

Listening to English podcasts helps develop multiple vital skills in English. One of the most important skills is listening, which will be improved if you listen to podcasts consistently. Other benefits include improved vocabulary, pronunciation, and accent. Plus, you can pick up English idioms and phrases that only native speakers would use.

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The 14 Best Podcasts to Help You Learn English [2023]

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English podcasts are a great way to learn a language. Find a list of the best ones for beginners, advanced learners and tips to get the most out of them.

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See these sample student answers to CAE Writing questions with feedback

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Sample answers to Flo-Joe's CAE writing tasks with a teacher's feedback

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IELTS Speaking is a one-to-one interaction between the candidate and an examiner. The three parts give the candidate the opportunity to use a range of different speaking skills. IELTS Speaking is recorded.

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For much of history, reading was a fairly noisy activity. On clay tablets written in ancient Iraq and Syria some 4,000 years ago, the commonly used words for "to read" literally meant "to cry out" or "to listen". "I am sending a very urgent message," says one letter from this period. "Listen to this tablet. If it is appropriate, have the king listen to it."

Only occasionally, a different technique was mentioned: to "see" a tablet - to read it silently.

Today, silent reading is the norm. The majority of us bottle the words in our heads as if sitting in the hushed confines of a library. Reading out loud is largely reserved for bedtime stories and performances.

But a growing body of research suggests that we may be missing out by reading only with the voices inside our minds. The ancient art of reading aloud has a number of benefits for adults, from helping improve our memories and understand complex texts, to strengthening emotional bonds between people. And far from being a rare or bygone activity, it is still surprisingly common in modern life. Many of us intuitively use it as a convenient tool for making sense of the written word, and are just not aware of it.

Colin MacLeod, a psychologist at the University of Waterloo in Canada, has extensively researched the impact of reading aloud on memory. He and his collaborators have shown that people consistently remember words and texts better if they read them aloud than if they read them silently. This memory-boosting effect of reading aloud is particularly strong in children, but it works for older people, too. "It's beneficial throughout the age range," he says.

Reading aloud is often encouraged in school classrooms, but most adults tend to do most of their reading silently (Credit: Alamy)

MacLeod has named this phenomenon the "production effect". It means that producing written words - that's to say, reading them out loud - improves our memory of them.

The production effect has been replicated in numerous studies spanning more than a decade. In one study in Australia, a group of seven-to-10-year-olds were presented with a list of words and asked to read some silently, and others aloud. Afterwards, they correctly recognised 87% of the words they'd read aloud, but only 70% of the silent ones.

In another study, adults aged 67 to 88 were given the same task - reading words either silently or aloud - before then writing down all those they could remember. They were able to recall 27% of the words they had read aloud, but only 10% of those they'd read silently. When asked which ones they recognised, they were able to correctly identify 80% of the words they had read aloud, but only 60% of the silent ones. MacLeod and his team have found the effect can last up to a week after the reading task.
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Even just silently mouthing the words makes them more memorable, though to a lesser extent. Researchers at Ariel University in the occupied West Bank discovered that the memory-enhancing effect also works if the readers have speech difficulties, and cannot fully articulate the words they read aloud.

MacLeod says one reason why people remember the spoken words is that "they stand out, they're distinctive, because they were done aloud, and this gives you an additional basis for memory".

We are generally better at recalling distinct, unusual events, and also, events that require active involvement. For instance, generating a word in response to a question makes it more memorable, a phenomenon known as the generation effect. Similarly, if someone prompts you with the clue "a tiny infant, sleeps in a cradle, begins with b", and you answer baby, you're going to remember it better than if you simply read it, MacLeod says.

Another way of making words stick is to enact them, for instance by bouncing a ball (or imagining bouncing a ball) while saying "bounce a ball". This is called the enactment effect. Both of these effects are closely related to the production effect: they allow our memory to associate the word with a distinct event, and thereby make it easier to retrieve later.

The production effect is strongest if we read aloud ourselves. But listening to someone else read can benefit memory in other ways. In a study led by researchers at the University of Perugia in Italy, students read extracts from novels to a group of elderly people with dementia over a total of 60 sessions. The listeners performed better in memory tests after the sessions than before, possibly because the stories made them draw on their own memories and imagination, and helped them sort past experiences into sequences. "It seems that actively listening to a story leads to more intense and deeper information processing," the researchers concluded.

Many religious texts and prayers are recited out loud as a way of underlining their importance (Credit: Alamy)

Reading aloud can also make certain memory problems more obvious, and could be helpful in detecting such issues early on. In one study, people with early Alzheimer's disease were found to be more likely than others to make certain errors when reading aloud.

There is some evidence that many of us are intuitively aware of the benefits of reading aloud, and use the technique more than we might realise.

Sam Duncan, an adult literacy researcher at University College London, conducted a two-year study of more than 500 people all over Britain during 2017-2019 to find out if, when and how they read aloud. Often, her participants would start out by saying they didn't read aloud - but then realised that actually, they did.

"Adult reading aloud is widespread," she says. "It's not something we only do with children, or something that only happened in the past."

Some said they read out funny emails or messages to entertain others. Others read aloud prayers and blessings for spiritual reasons. Writers and translators read drafts to themselves to hear the rhythm and flow. People also read aloud to make sense of recipes, contracts and densely written texts.

"Some find it helps them unpack complicated, difficult texts, whether it's legal, academic, or Ikea-style instructions," Duncan says. "Maybe it's about slowing down, saying it and hearing it."

For many respondents, reading aloud brought joy, comfort and a sense of belonging. Some read to friends who were sick or dying, as "a way of escaping together somewhere", Duncan says. One woman recalled her mother reading poems to her, and talking to her, in Welsh. After her mother died, the woman began reading Welsh poetry aloud to recreate those shared moments. A Tamil speaker living in London said he read Christian texts in Tamil to his wife. On Shetland, a poet read aloud poetry in the local dialect to herself and others.

"There were participants who talked about how when someone is reading aloud to you, you feel a bit like you're given a gift of their time, of their attention, of their voice," Duncan recalls. "We see this in the reading to children, that sense of closeness and bonding, but I don't think we talk about it as much with adults."

If reading aloud delivers such benefits, why did humans ever switch to silent reading? One clue may lie in those clay tablets from the ancient Near East, written by professional scribes in a script called cuneiform.

Many of us read aloud far more often in our daily lives than we perhaps realise (Credit: Alamy)

Over time, the scribes developed an ever faster and more efficient way of writing this script. Such fast scribbling has a crucial advantage, according to Karenleigh Overmann, a cognitive archaeologist at the University of Bergen, Norway who studies how writing affected human brains and behaviour in the past. "It keeps up with the speed of thought much better," she says.

Reading aloud, on the other hand, is relatively slow due to the extra step of producing a sound.

"The ability to read silently, while confined to highly proficient scribes, would have had distinct advantages, especially, speed," says Overmann. "Reading aloud is a behaviour that would slow down your ability to read quickly."

In his book on ancient literacy, Reading and Writing in Babylon, the French assyriologist Dominique Charpin quotes a letter by a scribe called Hulalum that hints at silent reading in a hurry. Apparently, Hulalum switched between "seeing" (ie, silent reading) and "saying/listening" (loud reading), depending on the situation. In his letter, he writes that he cracked open a clay envelope - Mesopotamian tablets came encased inside a thin casing of clay to prevent prying eyes from reading them - thinking it contained a tablet for the king.

"I saw that it was written to [someone else] and therefore did not have the king listen to it," writes Hulalum.

Perhaps the ancient scribes, just like us today, enjoyed having two reading modes at their disposal: one fast, convenient, silent and personal; the other slower, noisier, and at times more memorable.

In a time when our interactions with others and the barrage of information we take in are all too transient, perhaps it is worth making a bit more time for reading out loud. Perhaps you even gave it a try with this article, and enjoyed hearing it in your own voice?
Correction: An earlier version of this article identified Ariel University as being in Israel, when it is in occupied territory in the West Bank. We regret the error.
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For much of history, reading was a fairly noisy activity. On clay tablets written in ancient Iraq and Syria some 4,000 years ago, the commonly used words for "to read" literally meant "to cry out" or "to listen". "I am sending a very urgent message," says one letter from this period.

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The language of argumentation embraces certain terminology or turn of phrase that assists the writer to present a case in an impersonal way. Further, the type of argumentation that the question is requiring is often embedded in keywords found in the question, such as: discuss, analyse, evaluate. Lastly, the introduction of evidence into the context of the argument requires the use of reporting verbs.

Terms that are used in analytical writing:
Factor: One of the circumstances, facts or influences which produce a result
Issue: A point of contention or debate
Concept: A notion or idea

Terms one can use to draw a conclusion:
In conclusion it seems ...
To conclude that ...
It can be concluded that ...
Thus,...
So, in summary ...
It seems clear that ...
... allows the inference that ...
...gives reason for believing that ...

Terms that can be used to show how the conclusions are the result of claims and evidence:
...is shown by ...
...is indicated by ...
...is proven by ...
...is implied by ...
...is established by ...
...is entailed by ...

Terms that can be used so that the direction of argument is made clear. ( They point towards the conclusion of a paragraph):
...so ...
...thus ...
...therefore ...
...hence ...
...it can be concluded that ...
...consequently ...

Terms that can be used to show how claims and evidence lead to a certain conclusion:
...shows that ...
...indicates that ...
...proves that ...
...entails ...
...implies that ...
...establishes that ...
Keywords in a question that direct the writer:
Analyse: break a question/issue into its component parts and explain how they relate to one another.

Assess: estimate the importance or value of something.

Compare: examine similarities and differences.

Contrast: concentrate on the differences.

Criticise: point out the faults, limitations and usefulness of the subject in question.

Define: explain the precise meaning of something.

Describe: give a detailed account of a topic.

Discuss: Explain the meaning of something and present a logical argument exploring it.

Evaluate: weigh up the importance, success or value of something, using evidence to support your view.

Examine: give a detailed account of something, questioning and exploring relevant issues.

Explain: give a precise account of something, with reasons for why or how it is as it is.

Illustrate: use examples from a range of sources to demonstrate the subject of the essay. This may include written description of visual materials, eg., diagrams, photographs.

Justify or prove: make a case for a particular perspective. Establish the truth of something through supporting evidence or logical reasoning.

Review: examine how a topic has been studied and comment on the value and limitations of its treatment.

Literature review: survey the literature written on a subject, outlining key themes, points of discussion and gaps.

State: write the main points relating to the subject.

Summarise: give the main points of something.

To what extent?: Similar to evaluate: explore the case for and against a claim

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IELTS Reading Practice Test 01 from Cambridge IELTS 12 with Answer Keys & Explanation

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READING PASSAGE 1 You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 1-13 which are based on Reading Passage 1 below. Cork Cork - the thick bark of the cork oak tree (Quercus suber) - is a remarkable material. It is tough, elastic, buoyant, and fire-resistant, and suitable for a wide range of purposes.

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IELTS argumentative essay writing structure

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IELTS argumentative essay writing structure

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When you write a convincing article, you need more than an argument to make your voice felt. Even the best position would not be convincing if it is not well formulated and reinforced by sound logic and proof. Learn what elements each argumentative essay should contain and how to present the essay in a clean and attractive manner in this simple step-by-step tutorial. Read the article below to get a clear view of IELTS argumentative essay structure

What is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is a form of essay writing that takes a stand on the matter. In a strong argumentative article, the writer tries to convince readers to consider and accept their point of view on the matter by outlining their reasoning and presenting facts to back it up.

Argumentative essay writing is a common task for high school students as well as IELTS aspirants Normally, argumentative essay subjects are linked to science, technologies, economics and medical care.

Argument Essay IELTS Structure: IELTS Essay Format

Argumentative essays should have a clear structure such that they are convenient for readers to understand. The purpose of the argumentative essay is to explicitly outline the perspective, the logic and the proof. Follow the IELTS argumentative essay structure below, to write a perfect essay for your IELTS writing task

Introductory Paragraph: IELTS Essay Structure Task 2

The first section of your essay should outline the subject, include the context details required to explain your case, outline the facts that you will be presenting, and state your topic.

The Topic Statement: IELTS Essay Structure Task 2

This is part of the first line of your order. This is a succinct, one-sentence description of your key argument and assertion.

Body Paragraphs: IELTS Essay Structure Task 2

A standard argumentative essay consists of three or four paragraphs that clarify why you endorse your topic. Each topic sentence should cover a different theory or bit of proof and contain a theme sentence that simply and concisely demonstrates why the examiner should agree with your argument. Body paragraphs are where you support up your arguments with examples, analysis, statistics, tests, and text quotes. Discuss and disprove contrary points of view or justify that you disagree with them. Presenting facts and considering a subject from both perspectives adds integrity and can help you win the confidence of the examiner

Conclusion: IELTS Essay Structure Task 2

One section that reiterates the topic and outlines all the points set forth in the sections in your body. Instead of adding additional evidence or further claims, a successful conclusion would cater to the feelings of the reader. In certain cases, authors will use a subjective opinion to illustrate how the topic affects them directly.
Also Read: Art is Considered an Essential Part of All Cultures: A Topic of IELTS Essay
IELTS Writing Task Sample Topic

It is often argued that not many students go to university, while others claim that college education should be a fundamental right.

Discuss all sides of the debate and express your own view.

In certain developing nations, it is not uncommon for more than 50% of young people to attend university or college. Reviewers, though, contend that certain undergraduate programmes are useless and that young people will be best off learning expertise at the workplace. In this article, I'm going to discuss all sides of this debate and attempt to draw a conclusion.

Break the Paragraph: IELTS Argumentative Essay Structure

There are many reasons why students now feel that they have the right to higher education. Second, increasing growth in many parts of the world has expanded the number of families with resources to build for the future of their children. Around the same time, declining birth rates mean that one or two kids' families have become normal, raising the amount of spending for each child. It is not shocking, however, that young people are able to let their families sustain them until they are 21 or 22 years of age. In addition, millions of new positions have been generated in the information industries, and these jobs are normally only available to university graduates.

Break the Paragraph: IELTS Argumentative Essay Structure

Nevertheless, it also seems that graduates end up in jobs that are not relevant to their university studies. It is not rare for major English literature to end up employed in sales, or for an engineering graduate to retrain as an instructor, for example. Any commentators have indicated that young people are avoiding their entrance into the workplace rather than learning technical skills. The more important concern is that the higher cost of higher education would ensure that many families are hesitant to have more than one child, alleviating the declining birth rate in some countries.

Break the Paragraph: IELTS Argumentative Essay Structure
Also Read: Is there a Fact Check in Essay Writing in IELTS? Here's a List of Do's and Don'ts
In summary, while it can be claimed that so much focus is placed on higher education, my own view is that university years are a critical period for personal growth. When individuals enter the workplace at the age of 18, their career opportunities can be heavily limited. Attending a university gives them opportunities to think more about themselves and make a more fitting career decision.

IELTS Argumentative Essay Structure Key Points

Make a Question and Answer It

Set a major question that was asked of your essay or in the first few words. Then, accumulate your short paragraph to address the question. For illustration, in your title or introduction, you may ask, "What is the best kind of sandwich? " And then respond with your sentence fragment: "The best type of sandwich is sour cream and jam." This approach is successful since interesting questions pull readers in and inspire them to keep reading to find answers.

Make an Argument and Clarify It

Implement a concept that conflicts with your view, and clarify explicitly why you disagree with it. "While some people think that peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are too easy, they are flexible. Transform the subject into a question and answer it. Set a major question in the title of your essay or in the first few words. Then, accumulate your short paragraph to address the question. For instance, in your title or introduction, you may ask, "What is the best kind of sandwich? "And then respond with your sentence fragment: 'The best form of sandwich is sour cream and jam.' This approach is successful because interesting questions attract readers and inspire them to continue to read to figure out the answer.
Also Read: IELTS Writing Task 2 Samples: Exam Questions & Answers to Target Minimum Band 8
Outline the Crucial Points

Introduce the key argument and clarify how you are going to back that up. For instance, "You can turn whipped cream and jam sandwich into a fine meal by using hand-made bread, toasting bread, and creating extra ingredients." This approach is useful because it gives readers a good picture about what you're about to cover in your article. It also acts as a route map to help you remain focused and on schedule.

5 Argument Types: IELTS Argumentative Essay Structure

When you decide what you're speaking about and know your conclusion point, imagine how you're going to make your case. There are five forms of statement statements that can be used to guide your essay:

Idea: whether the argument is valid or not.

Description: a dictionary definition of what you argue, and your own personal understanding of it.

Value: The value of what you're talking for.

Cause and consequence: what triggers the dilemma in your article and what effect it has on it.

Strategy: why the examiner should take care of it and what they should do with it after reading it.

Also Read: IELTS Essay in Writing Task 2: Here's How to Organize it Well
Conclusion

We hope we have given you a perfect article regarding the IELTS argumentative essay structure. To write a perfect argumentative essay you must practice daily. Opt for a lot of mock tests to get better.

Want to become perfect in the IELTS argumentative essay? Follow similar blogs from IELTS Ninja

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IELTS Argumentative Essay Structure: Here's the Step by Step Guide You should Know

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When you write a convincing article, you need more than an argument to make your voice felt. Even the best position would not be convincing if it is not well formulated and reinforced by sound logic and proof.