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Overview of the C1 Advanced Cambridge Exam

Apr 28, 2025

Lecture: Overview of the C1 Advanced Cambridge Exam

Introduction

  • Presenter: Ben from 'To the Point English'
  • Purpose: Provide a general overview of the CAE Cambridge English Exam
  • Audience: Suitable for beginners in preparation or those about to take the exam
  • Structure: Quick-paced, video can be re-watched

Exam Structure

  • Consists of 4 papers and 18 parts:
    1. Reading and Use of English
    2. Writing
    3. Listening
    4. Speaking

Reading and Use of English

  • Duration: 1.5 hours, 8 parts
  • Order: Flexible; no particular order required
  • Part 1: Multiple choice cloze test
    • Fill gaps in a short text with one of four options
    • Tip: Use intuition to determine correct word
  • Part 2: Open cloze test
    • Fill gaps without options; focus on prepositions, pronouns, etc.
  • Part 3: Word formation
    • Change the given word to fit the text logically
    • Tip: Watch for negatives and correct grammatical form
  • Part 4: Key word transformation
    • Change a given sentence using a key word and 3-6 words
    • Focus on grammar, idioms, expressions
  • Parts 5-8: Focus on reading comprehension with various formats like multiple choice, cross-text matching, and gapped text

Writing

  • Duration: 1.5 hours, 2 parts
  • Part 1: Compulsory essay (220-260 words)
  • Part 2: Choice between a letter/email, report, proposal, or review; choice of three out of four options

Listening

  • Similar to reading, but audio format
  • Part 1: Multiple choice with unrelated audios
  • Part 2: Sentence completion
    • Listen to a monologue, fill gaps with exact words
    • Tip: Stay focused; paraphrased text may confuse
  • Part 3: Longer audio, usually an interview or discussion
  • Part 4: Multiple matching with five short monologues
    • Two tasks per monologue

Speaking

  • Usually on a different day, 15 minutes
  • Part 1: Simple Q&A, breaking the ice
  • Part 2: Compare two out of three photos, answer questions
  • Part 3: Interaction with partner using a diagram
    • Discuss and make decisions
  • Part 4: General discussion on the theme with partner

Conclusion

  • The CAE exam is complex, generally requiring months of preparation
  • Understanding structure, strategies, tips are crucial for success
  • Additional resources and videos available from Ben for detailed preparation
  • Encouragement to subscribe for more content

Full transcript