Getting Ready for the Certificate Tests; Weekly Feature at the Pearson Adult Learning Centre (New Westminster, BC, Canada)

Getting Ready for the Certificate Tests
by Patricia

Soon students in levels 4-10 English will be writing certificate tests. What can you do to prepare?

First, you should try to attend as many classes as possible. Often the teachers will mention the tests in class and will give students information on how to perform better on them. Also, you should study your English workbook. Try to finish it. Some of the questions on the grammar portion of the test may be very similar to the workbook. Make sure you know how to use all punctuation and capitals properly.

All the tests have a grammar section. They also have a reading section. The reading will be one you have never seen before, so there may be some unfamiliar vocabulary.

Remember to use context clues to guess the meaning. There are usually some hints in the sentences before and after the unknown word. The third section on the test will be writing.

All levels need to write clear complete sentences. English 6, 7 and 8 also need to write a good paragraph. English 9 and 10 need to write a good essay. Make sure you write only on one of the topics given. You have probably practiced doing this many times in your class.

No dictionaries are allowed during the tests, but don’t let that worry you. Everyone is in the same situation. Try to relax and do your best. The following weekly features are especially helpful to prepare for the upcoming certificate tests:

Essay Writing

Writing an Essay: Part One

Writing an Essay: Part Two

Writing an Essay: Part Three

Grammar

Feature on Alliteration (Poetic Technique)

Feature on Using Semicolons

Feature on Using Coordinating Conjunctions (FANBOYS)

Feature on Using the Correct Verb

Practice Sentences Using Skillswise

Using Articles in Grammar (Part 2)

Using Articles in Grammar (Part 1)