Overview
This lecture provides a comprehensive overview of the C1 Advanced Cambridge English (CAE) exam, including its structure, main components, and practical tips for each section.
Exam Structure
- The CAE exam consists of four papers: Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking.
- Reading and Use of English lasts 1.5 hours (8 parts); Writing lasts 1.5 hours (2 parts).
- Listening is 40 minutes (4 parts); Speaking is about 15 minutes (4 parts), often on a separate day.
- Speaking is done with a partner or, rarely, in a group of three.
Reading and Use of English
- Part 1: Multiple choice cloze; fill 8 gaps in a short text using given options.
- Part 2: Open cloze; fill 8 gaps without options—usually prepositions, pronouns, or simple verbs.
- Part 3: Word formation; change the form of a given word to fit the sentence grammatically and logically.
- Part 4: Key word transformations; rewrite sentences using a given key word while keeping the meaning (3-6 words).
- Part 5: Reading comprehension; answer multiple choice questions based on a long text.
- Part 6: Cross-text multiple matching; match opinions or perspectives across four texts.
- Part 7: Gapped text; insert six missing paragraphs into the correct places in a long text.
- Part 8: Multiple matching; match ten sentences with information in various paragraphs.
Writing
- Part 1: Compulsory essay (220-260 words).
- Part 2: Choice of three out of four options—letter/email, report, proposal, or review (220-260 words).
- It is sufficient to prepare for two out of four possible formats if short on time.
Listening
- Part 1: Multiple choice; answer questions on three short, unrelated recordings.
- Part 2: Sentence completion; fill gaps with exact words from an information monologue.
- Part 3: Multiple choice; answer questions on one long interview or discussion.
- Part 4: Multiple matching; match information from five short monologues to given options while multitasking.
- All recordings are played twice.
Speaking
- Part 1: Simple questions about yourself and general topics (warming up).
- Part 2: Compare and speculate on two out of three photos, answering two questions in one minute.
- Part 3: Collaborative task; discuss prompts with a partner and try to reach a decision.
- Part 4: General discussion on previous topics; interact naturally with your partner.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Cloze test — a text with gaps where missing words must be filled in.
- Word formation — changing the form of a word (e.g., noun to adjective) to fit a sentence.
- Key word transformation — rewriting sentences using a given word while preserving the original meaning.
- Monologue — a long speech by one person (used in Listening Part 2).
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the structure and timing of each paper.
- Practice each part under timed conditions.
- Prepare for at least two writing formats for the exam.
- Watch related strategy videos for detailed tips per section.