Archive for the ‘Paper 3: Use of English’ Category
The grammar of phrasal verbs
Here’s a good explanation of the grammar of phrasal verbs. Learn phrasal verbs properly!
But remember there is no quick and easy way to learn them. It is a question of practice and USAGE!
Then, try to understand the logic of each particle: meaning associated to “up” “down” “off”… and then group phrasal verbs around topics (media, relatioships, doctors, etc). For instance, listen to these audios (I stumbled upon this great great site on phrasal verbs, kudos to phrasalverbdemon.com!) and try to group all verbs+particles you hear around several different topics.
Check out also the other posts I have published on phrasal verbs.
FCE Practice Tests: Use of English, gap filling.
FCE Practice Tests: Use of English, multiple choice.
FCE Use of English: sample test and keys
Word formation
I wish I knew how…
A lot of theory/grammar on wish and all that. But see it in practice here:
(Have I ever told you how much I love Nina Simone?)
(and watch her answering here: what’s free to me?)
I also like this cover by Lighthouse Family, notice how different the lyrics are, if at all:
I hope your wish comes true (wish vs hope)
…and you pass the FCE with flying colors.
In the meantime, check out the difference bw wish and hope here (ppt).

Quantifying love profusion
Listen to the following song:
- There are too many…(?)
- There is so much…(?)
Reported Speech
The ppt I used in our lesson:
Good old days…
Remember my post on past habits? Watch this video and practice:



