B2 First Exam Guide: Word Formation
Reading & Use of English Paper
Contents
Overview
Context: Part 3 of the B2 First Reading and Use of English paper includes a text with eight gaps where candidates use a given 'stem word' to form a word that fits each gap.
Task: Candidates form appropriate words from given stem words, focusing on vocabulary and understanding of structure, including prefixes, suffixes, internal changes, and compounds.
Objective: To test candidates' vocabulary knowledge and ability to manipulate word forms within a text context.
Scoring & Marks: The eight questions are worth eight points, so one point for each. There are 70 points available for the whole Reading & Use of English paper.
How to Approach
- Analysing Stem Words: Understand the range of words that can be formed from a single stem word and their various forms (e.g., compete, competition, competitor).
- Reading the Context: Read the surrounding sentence to decide the correct form of the missing word, considering whether it needs to be plural or negative.
- Word Formation: Be aware that answers may require more than adding prefixes or suffixes; sometimes internal changes are necessary.
- Focus on Each Gap: Each stem word applies only to the gap with the same number; avoid trying to use it in any other context.
Example Question
4. If you go walking around the factory, ensure you have ______________ clothing on.
protect
Assessment Focus
This part tests the candidate's knowledge of vocabulary and ability to understand and use different word forms in context.
Tips
- Develop skills in quickly determining the most appropriate form of a word to fit a specific gap.
- Focus on understanding the overall meaning of the text to ensure that the formed words contribute to the coherence of the text.
- Engage in activities that involve using stem words in different contexts, such as writing exercises or vocabulary games.
- Use resources like word formation lists and exercises to build familiarity with common prefixes, suffixes, and internal word changes.
- When you record new words, try to find other common forms of the word from the same root.
How It Looks
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Student Suggestion
"I regularly practised transforming words from their base forms to different derivatives, which helped me greatly in this part of the exam." - Andrei Popescu
Practice Exercises
We have a page on the site to practise: B2 First: Word Formation Exercises