FCE Reading Part 6 Introduction.

The FCE (First Certificate in English), CAE (Certificate in Advanced English), and CPE (Certificate of Proficiency in English) exams all feature a gapped text exercise in Reading Part 6. While the format of the exercise is similar across these exams, there are distinct differences in terms of the CEFR level and the complexity of linguistic and lexico-grammatical items involved.

Key Distinctions in Reading Part 6 Gapped Text Task:

1. CEFR Levels:
   • FCE: B2 (Upper-Intermediate)
   • CAE: C1 (Advanced)
   • CPE: C2 (Proficient)

Linguistic and Lexico-Grammatical Items in FCE Reading Part 6:

At the FCE level, the gapped text task involves:

1. Vocabulary Range:
   • Medium-Complexity Lexis: The gapped text will include words and phrases that are not overly specialized or technical but go beyond basic everyday vocabulary. Examples might include words like "sufficient," "inevitable," "significant," "evaluate," and "justify."
   • Limited Idiomatic Language: Compared to CAE and CPE, the text will have fewer idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs, focusing more on collocations and compound words that are more straightforward.
2. Grammatical Structures:
   • Simple to Complex Sentences: The gapped text will feature a mix of simple and compound sentences, with some subordinate clauses but less complexity than CAE and CPE.
   • Variety of Tenses: A wide range of tenses will be used, including past perfect, future perfect, and conditionals, but within simpler structures.
   • Relative Clauses: There will be a common use of defining and non-defining relative clauses, though these will be simpler and fewer in number than in the higher-level exams.
3. Cohesive Devices:
   • Conjunctions and Linking Words: Frequent use of conjunctions (e.g., "although," "since," "unless") and linking words (e.g., "therefore," "however," "on the other hand") to connect ideas.
   • Pronouns and Substitution: Moderate use of pronouns to avoid repetition and some use of substitution words (e.g., "one," "do so").

Comparison with CAE and CPE Gapped Texts:

• CAE:
  • Vocabulary: The gapped text includes more sophisticated and abstract vocabulary, including idiomatic expressions and less common phrasal verbs.
  • Grammar: The text features more complex sentence structures with multiple subordinate clauses, extensive use of passive voice, and advanced conditionals.
  • Cohesion: There is a greater use of cohesive devices, including a wider variety of conjunctions and discourse markers.
• CPE:
  • Vocabulary: The text contains highly sophisticated, specialized vocabulary, and a high frequency of idiomatic language and expressions.
  • Grammar: Very complex and nuanced sentence structures, extensive use of various grammatical moods, and perfect tenses are common.
  • Cohesion: Mastery of cohesive devices is evident, with subtle and varied use of pronouns, conjunctions, and discourse markers to create a highly coherent and cohesive text.

Practical Implications for FCE Reading Part 6 Preparation:

1. Matching Nouns with Pronouns: Develop the skill of matching nouns with their corresponding pronouns to help identify the correct placement of paragraphs. This involves understanding reference chains and tracking subjects and objects throughout the text.
2. Understanding Linkers: Practice recognizing and using linkers that indicate sequence, contrast, cause/effect, and addition. This is crucial for understanding the logical flow of the text and determining where each paragraph fits. Key linkers at FCE level include:
   • Sequence: "firstly," "then," "next," "finally"
   • Contrast: "however," "on the other hand," "although"
   • Cause/Effect: "therefore," "because," "as a result"
   • Addition: "furthermore," "in addition," "also"
3. Intermediate Lexis: Focus on broadening vocabulary that is challenging but not overly technical or idiomatic. Practice identifying and understanding medium-complexity words within texts.
4. Grammatical Accuracy: Ensure familiarity with a variety of tenses and complex sentence structures typical for B2 level, such as relative clauses and conditionals. Practice identifying and completing sentences with appropriate grammatical forms.
5. Cohesion and Coherence: Develop skills in using and recognizing cohesive devices. Practice exercises that involve connecting ideas clearly and logically within a text, paying attention to conjunctions and pronouns.

Conclusion

In summary, while the format of the gapped text exercise is similar across FCE, CAE, and CPE, the FCE level emphasizes intermediate vocabulary, a mix of simple and moderately complex grammatical structures, and effective use of cohesive devices appropriate for upper-intermediate learners. This focus ensures that the gapped text task at FCE tests candidates on their ability to understand and construct coherent texts at the B2 level. Understanding how to match nouns with pronouns and use linkers effectively is crucial for success in this task. 

Are you ready to train for FCE Reading Part 6?

Click and go to the next lesson, where you will find practice exercises to show you the issues of FCE Reading Part 6.