Speak and Write English with Philip

English with Philip

CAE Examination (Cambridge Advanced English)

Do you want to take the Cambridge CAE Exam?

Watch this Tutorial Video that shows you exactly what you need to do and how.

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What does Cambridge English: Advanced involve?
Cambridge English: Advanced is at Level C1 of the Common European Framework
of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It is accepted by universities, employers and
government departments worldwide as an indication that you have achieved a high
level of skill in the English language. Preparing for Cambridge English: Advanced
helps learners develop the skills to make the most of studying, working and living
in English-speaking countries. It can be taken in both paper-based and computer based
formats.

Before the exam – preparation
It is important to familiarise yourself with the tasks and what they demand of you,
and to get accustomed to doing them. They are designed to enable you to show
that you can do in English, but you will only be able to do this if you understand what
is involved and what is being tested. For example, in the Writing test if you are not
familiar with the type of tasks, do not know which particular skills are being assessed
or are not used to writing within a time limit, then you may not be able
to demonstrate your true ability.
Although knowledge of grammar and vocabulary is certainly important, it is essential
to realise that you are being assessed on a range of skills and on your communicative
ability. So, for example, in the Speaking test you are assessed on your ability to
interact with your partner and keep a conversation going, as well as use of language.
To help you feel really prepared for Cambridge English: Advanced, there is a range of
free exam preparation resources, including:
• tips and FAQs for each exam paper
• sample papers.

What can I listen to outside the classroom to improve my listening skills?
Try to listen to as wide a variety of things as possible and get used to listening to
people with different accents. Internet podcasts are very useful, as are English TV
channels and radio stations. Listen to a range of programmes, including:
• news broadcasts
• interviews and discussion programmes
• documentaries
• talks
• plays and drama
• LBC Radio in London.

What is the best way to develop my speaking skills?
The best thing to do is to take every opportunity to speak English. Try to use English
in a wide range of contexts – different topics, different people and different purposes
for speaking. Also remember to familiarise yourself with the assessment criteria used
in the Speaking exam: Grammatical Resource, Lexical Resource, Discourse Management,
Pronunciation and Interactive Communication.  You can practice for the CAE Speaking Test with your Skypeclass Teacher.

Watch a CAE Speaking Test Video
Click to watch Video of CAE TEST.