My 3-week online course starts tomorrow, so it is time to share a list that might come in handy not only for course participants but for all aspiring exam candidates out there!
So, is it really possible to get prepared for a Cambridge exam in just 3 weeks???
Well, the short answer is: yes and no. :-)
The longer answer is: it depends on 2 main things:
1. your starting level of English
2. daily expert training with meticulously designed curriculum, materials and feedback - all laser-focused on the specific requirements of the Cambridge exam you are taking
I can’t make miracles with the first one, but I can guarantee the second one! :-)
CLICK HERE for my 3-week intensive online course
Preparing for the Cambridge exam in just three weeks is a challenging task, but it is indeed possible if your starting level of English is advanced enough and you dedicate enough time and effort to studying during those three weeks.
Let’s see the foundations that you should already have to prepare for Cambridge C1.
What you need to have:
1. Strong and stable use of B2 grammar, including all verb tenses, modals, conditionals, passive, gerund + infinitive, reported speech. If you do not even know what these words mean, it probably means you don’t have those foundations yet. :-)
2. Confidence and fluency talking about general topics, using a wide range of advanced vocabulary with advanced collocations. Such topics are work, education, family, travelling, free time, environment, sustainability, global issues and science, to name but a few.
Can you tick these above requirements? Great! So, what’s next?
Here are my 10 best tips for short-term Cambridge exam preparation:
1. Assessment
Start by taking a practice Cambridge exam placement test. This will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, the areas you need to work on.
2.Planning
Create a detailed study plan that allocates time for each exam part (called Exam Papers) – reading, use of English, writing, listening, and speaking.
3. Grammar
Work on advanced grammar structures such as inversion, inverted conditionals, passive reporting, reporting verbs, advanced comparison etc.
4. Vocabulary
Enhance your vocabulary by learning loads of collocations, synonyms, antonyms, idiomatic expressions, and also academic vocabulary.
5. Reading
Practice reading a variety of texts, including articles, essays, and reports. Get familiar with and learn the different exam techniques related to each reading task.
6. Speaking
Learn the tricks and tips of each exam task then engage in daily speaking practice with a study partner or tutor. Don’t forget to set the timer for the speaking activities! (1 or 2 minutes per task)
7. Writing
To polish your writing skills, learn about different writing styles and their specific rules. Collect and make a list of typical expressions and sentences for each. Write essays, reports, proposals, reviews and formal/informal letters to improve your writing style, structure and have your tutor correct it for you! Getting personal feedback and assessment is a must if you prepare for a Cambridge exam.
8. Listening Practice
Listen to audio materials such as podcasts, interviews, and news broadcasts.
Take notes while listening to improve your comprehension and note-taking abilities. Check new vocab and write down example sentences. Google is your friend!
9. Mock Exams
Take at least 3 full-length, reliable mock exams under timed conditions to simulate exam environment. Discuss your answers and results with your tutor and learn from your mistakes
10. Stay consistent!
Keep in mind that individual results may vary, since success will not only depend on your prior knowledge and study strategies, but also on your motivation, dedication and consistency.
What can you expect if you join my 3-week intensive course?
Well, sweat and tears, of course. :-)
But also:
live lessons 4 times a week! (all morning)
+ 3 Webinars
+ 3 Speaking Clubs
+ 12 E-books
+ 6 Writing Booklets with loads of assistance
+ 12 (!) personalized writing feedback
+ free access to online library
+ 3 mock exams
all in mini-groups!
Are you ready to join? We are starting tomorrow!
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE DETAILS
