B1 PET

Cambridge PET – Speaking Part 2 (Speaking Circle)

While speaking tasks might not seem that terrifying, the truth is that for many students, having to talk on their own for a full minute in Speaking Part 2 can feel like the longest sixty seconds of their lives. Honestly, I totally get it. Speaking naturally, with no one helping you out, is tough —… Continue reading Cambridge PET – Speaking Part 2 (Speaking Circle)

C1 CAE, Christmas

Christmas-themed C1 speaking

'Tis the season again! Time really flies, doesn't it? So, I've got a fun Christmas gift for all the Cambridge prep teachers out there - Christmas-themed speaking activities for CAE candidates. There's truly nothing better than relaxing after a busy prep time while still getting ready for that exam, all in a festive vibe! I… Continue reading Christmas-themed C1 speaking

A2 KEY

A2 – Reading and Writing Part 6 – Christmas Email

We are about to enter the most magical time of the year – Christmas! This season offers immense potential for countless themed lesson plans. For this reason, I would like to propose a Christmas email writing lesson that cleverly encourages students to write emails inviting their friends and coworkers to an office Christmas party. I… Continue reading A2 – Reading and Writing Part 6 – Christmas Email

C1 CAE

C1 – Use of English Part 4 – Mastering paraphrasing

While I may not be the biggest fan of Use of English (and I know many of my students feel the same), I firmly believe that mastering it is key to success. CAE Use of English Part 4 involves sentence transformations, which challenge students on their understanding of grammar, collocations, and fixed expressions. A well-designed… Continue reading C1 – Use of English Part 4 – Mastering paraphrasing

B1 PET

Cambridge PET – Speaking Part 3 (work)

The Cambridge Preliminary and First exams are split into two groups - students and adults. Today, I'm focusing on the adult side and putting together a lesson where students can chat about different job options and career paths, just like in PET Speaking Part 3. This lesson is great because it lets everyone discuss the… Continue reading Cambridge PET – Speaking Part 3 (work)

B1 PET

Cambridge PET – Speaking Part 4 (sports)

Cambridge examiners enjoy discussing sports, and it’s easy to see why—it's a universal topic that resonates with almost everyone. To engage students effectively, introduce them to a speaking strategy that encourages them to express general opinions, share personal views, and support those opinions with examples, all centered around the theme of sports. Unfortunately, I believe… Continue reading Cambridge PET – Speaking Part 4 (sports)

C1 CAE, Halloween, Holiday classes

Halloween-themed C1 speaking

After a two-year break, I am returning with another instalment of Cambridge Halloween-themed speaking! This easy, no-prep class combines the best of both worlds: exam preparation and the fun of discussing the holiday. This type of class is typically well-received by all students, so get ready for some spooky conversations in the style of a… Continue reading Halloween-themed C1 speaking

B2 FCE

B2 – Use of English Part 2 – Motorbike Stunt Rider

Find one student who loves the Use of English. I dare you. Most of my students understand the rules of it and there are times when they can do it very well, but still deep inside, they despise it. I decided to look at some free online resources and transform one of the Use of… Continue reading B2 – Use of English Part 2 – Motorbike Stunt Rider

B1 PET

Cambridge PET – Speaking Part 2 – Prepositions of place

Do you often find yourself speaking for extended periods of time alone? If you work for a company and give presentations frequently, the answer is likely yes. However, have you ever had to describe a picture to someone? Probably not. This is why so many people struggle with this part of the PET speaking exam.… Continue reading Cambridge PET – Speaking Part 2 – Prepositions of place

C1 CAE

CAE – Speaking Part 2 – Games

Most of us have played games at some point in our lives, whether it's video games or board games. With so many different types of games available, it's a versatile topic that's suitable for people of all ages. Even C1 Cambridge prep students can benefit from discussing games, as it's an easy way to learn… Continue reading CAE – Speaking Part 2 – Games