I haven’t even had time to keep up with the posts about each episode of our podcast. Terribly neglectful of me. Towards the end of last year we did a little mini series on the Cambridge B2 First or whatever it’s called these days (Cambridge keep changing the name). We looked at most parts of the exam; have a listen by following the links below:
FCE General Tips
FCE Speaking
FCE Reading
FCE Use of English
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First post in a while as I’ve been tied up with DELTA module 1 exams. Modules 1 and 2 are done! It’s been a fantastic but extremely taxing experience.
So it’s back to the bread and butter of exam prep classes and two long-standing private students have their FCE next week, so I’ve made this handy FCE speaking phrase sheet. Download it below:
FCE Speaking Phrases
| Likes/dislikes
I’m into… I’m a keen/avid (surfer) I’m keen on/fond of (surfing) I’m a fan of… |
Opinion
In my opinion… I think/reckon… From my point of view…
|
| Comparing/contrasting
Both pictures show… In this picture we can see… whereas/while in the other picture… In contrast On the other hand |
Describing pictures
He/she/they seem to be… He/she is probably… In this picture it looks as if/though they are… They could/might/may be… They could/might/may have just… In the background there is/are… At the top/bottom… In the corner… |
| Agreeing
You’re absolutely right. I feel the same. I couldn’t agree more. I think so too. Absolutely/totally. |
Disagreeing
I don’t think so… I take your point but… Hhhmmm, I’m not so sure… I see what you mean but… |
| Starting
Shall I start? Shall we start with….? Would you like to start? Do you mind if I start? That’s a difficult/interesting question. Now let me see… |
Asking for opinion
What’s your opinion on….? What do you think about….? How do you feel about…? Would you agree with that? |
| Personalising
Speaking from personal experience,… For me personally,.. I’d prefer to be in this situation because….
|
Impressive structures
Another point I’d like to add about … is… Coming back to what… was saying about… It’s also important to remember that… Another idea which has just occurred to me is… |
| Repairing and Rescuing
I can’t remember the word at the moment but… It’s the thing you use to… The person who… I have the word on the tip of my tongue. The word has slipped my mind. What I’m trying to say is… What I mean is… |
Asking for repetition
I beg your pardon, I didn’t catch that. Sorry would you mind repeating that? Could you repeat the question please? |
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This is a conversation activity designed to get teenagers and adults talking and practice the phrases:
The best/worst thing about… is…
Download the powerpoint below, project it and have students discuss their ideas in groups then share them in open class, board any emergent language and exploit any opportunities for debate and exponents of agreeing, disagreeing and expressing opinion.