C1 Advanced Exam Guide: Word Formation
Reading & Use of English Paper
Contents
Overview
Context: Part 3 of the Reading & Use of English paper features a text with eight gaps, each accompanied by a stem word in capital letters.
Task: Candidates need to create a suitable word from each given stem word to fill the gaps. The task requires a strong understanding of word formation, including prefixes, suffixes, internal changes, and compounds.
Objective: To test the candidate's lexical knowledge and their ability to apply word formation principles in context.
Scoring & Marks: The eight questions are worth eight points, so one point for each. There are 78 points available for the whole Reading & Use of English paper.
How to Approach
- Understanding Word Formation: Familiarise yourself with principles of word formation, including the use of prefixes, suffixes, internal changes, and compounding.
- Contextual Understanding: Determine the class of word (noun, verb, adjective, adverb) required for each gap, considering the surrounding text.
- Flexibility in Word Forms: Be prepared to form different word types, including plural forms, specific verb parts, or words with negative prefixes.
Example Question
2. After a difficult ________, Michael went on to be a successful lawyer.
bring
Assessment Focus
This section tests vocabulary and grammar through the application of word formation skills in a text context.
Tips
- Develop a strong vocabulary base, focusing on the structure of words and common word formation patterns.
- Practise transforming stem words into different parts of speech as required by the text.
- Pay attention to clues in the surrounding text that indicate the grammatical form needed for each gap.
- Incorporate word formation exercises into your study routine, focusing on creating different word forms from a single base word.
How It Looks
Student Suggestion
"When I record a new word, I will often add common derivative words. Yesterday, I wrote not only "beneficial" but also "beneficiary" in my vocabulary book. Once it becomes a habit, you don't even have to think about it." - Marcel Trossard
Practice Exercises
We have a page on the site to practise: C1 Advanced: Word Formation Exercises
