How to Pass the Cambridge Exam

Mastering the Cambridge Exam can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it is definitely achievable. Whether you are a student aiming to enhance your academic credentials or a professional seeking to improve your chances of career advancement, passing the Cambridge Exam can open doors to exciting opportunities. In this article, we will discuss proven strategies to help you succeed in this rigorous examination.

From understanding the exam structure to effective time management techniques and targeted study methods, we will provide you with valuable insights and tips. Our comprehensive guide will cover all aspects of the exam, including the different sections, such as Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. We will also share practical advice on how to improve your vocabulary, grammar skills, and reading speed.

By following our expert recommendations and implementing our tried-and-tested strategies, you will be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the Cambridge Exam. Get ready to boost your confidence and maximize your chances of passing with flying colors. Let’s dive in and make your Cambridge Exam journey a successful one!

Understanding the Different Cambridge Exams

The Cambridge exams are internationally recognized English language proficiency tests. There are several different exams available, each catering to different levels of proficiency. It’s important to understand the differences between these exams and choose the one that best suits your current language skills and goals.

• Preliminary English Test (PET): The PET exam is an intermediate level exam that assesses your ability to communicate in everyday English. It focuses on practical language skills for work, study, and travel.
• First Certificate in English (FCE): The FCE exam is a higher intermediate level exam and is widely recognized as proof of language ability for various purposes. It tests your ability to understand and use everyday written and spoken English.
• Certificate in Advanced English (CAE): The CAE exam is an advanced level exam and is accepted by many universities and employers as evidence of high-level achievement in English. It assesses your ability to communicate effectively in professional and academic contexts.
• Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): The CPE exam is the highest level of proficiency offered by Cambridge. It demonstrates that you have reached an exceptional standard of English and can communicate with fluency and sophistication in professional and academic settings.

Understanding the different Cambridge exams is the first step in preparing for success. Choose the exam that aligns with your current language skills and future goals.

Exam Format and Structure

To excel in the Cambridge Exam, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the exam format and structure. Each exam has its own unique sections and tasks that you need to be prepared for. Here is a breakdown of the common sections you will encounter:

1. Reading: This section assesses your ability to understand written texts, identify main ideas, and extract specific information. You will need to practice skimming and scanning techniques to efficiently answer the questions within the given time limit.
2. Writing: The writing section evaluates your ability to produce clear, well-structured, and coherent written text. You will be required to complete various writing tasks, such as essays, letters, reports, and articles. Developing your writing skills and practicing different writing styles is key to performing well in this section.
3. Listening: This section measures your ability to understand spoken English in different contexts. You will listen to recordings of conversations, interviews, lectures, and discussions, and answer questions based on the information you hear. Active listening and note-taking skills are crucial for success in this section.
4. Speaking: The speaking section evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in spoken English. You will have to participate in one-on-one and group discussions, express and justify opinions, and engage in role-plays. Building confidence through regular practice and developing a wide range of vocabulary and grammar will help you excel in this section.

Understanding the format and structure of each section will enable you to focus your preparation efforts effectively.

Tips for Preparing for the Cambridge Exam

Preparing for the Cambridge Exam requires a well-structured study plan and consistent effort. Here are some valuable tips to help you make the most of your preparation time:

1. Start Early: Begin your preparation well in advance to allow ample time for practice and improvement. Set realistic goals and create a study schedule that suits your daily routine.
2. Familiarize Yourself with the Exam: Obtain official Cambridge exam preparation materials and study guides to understand the content, format, and level of difficulty of the exam. This will give you a clear idea of what to expect and help you tailor your preparation accordingly.
3. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is essential for success. Set aside dedicated study time and practice each section of the exam regularly. Focus on your weak areas and allocate more time to improve in those areas.
4. Build Vocabulary and Grammar Skills: Enhance your vocabulary by learning new words and their usage in different contexts. Familiarize yourself with common grammar rules and practice applying them in your writing and speaking.
5. Improve Reading Speed: The reading section requires you to read and comprehend texts within a limited time frame. Practice speed reading techniques to improve your reading speed without compromising understanding.
6. Seek Feedback and Guidance: Join a preparation course or find a study partner who can provide feedback on your performance. Additionally, seek guidance from experienced teachers or tutors who can offer valuable insights and help you refine your skills.

By following these tips, you will be well on your way to achieving success in the Cambridge Exam.

Effective Study Techniques for the Cambridge Exam

Studying effectively is crucial for maximizing your chances of success in the Cambridge Exam. Here are some proven study techniques to help you make the most of your preparation time:

1. Set Clear Goals: Define your study goals and break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. This will help you stay focused and motivated throughout your preparation journey.
2. Create a Study Plan: Design a study plan that outlines your daily, weekly, and monthly study goals. Allocate specific time slots for each section of the exam and ensure you cover all the necessary topics.
3. Use Authentic Materials: Apart from official Cambridge preparation materials, incorporate authentic English language resources, such as newspapers, magazines, books, and podcasts, into your study routine. This will expose you to real-life English language usage and improve your overall language skills.
4. Practice Past Papers: Familiarize yourself with the types of questions asked in previous exams by practicing past papers. This will help you understand the exam format, identify patterns, and improve your time management skills.
5. Take Mock Exams: Simulate the exam environment by taking mock exams under timed conditions. This will help you build stamina, manage exam anxiety, and identify areas that require further improvement.
6. Review and Reflect: After completing practice exercises and mock exams, review your answers and identify areas where you made mistakes or struggled. Reflect on these areas and seek additional practice to strengthen your skills.

By incorporating these study techniques into your preparation routine, you will enhance your understanding of the exam content and build confidence in your abilities.

Recommended Resources for Cambridge Exam Preparation

To complement your preparation efforts, here are some recommended resources that can further enhance your Cambridge Exam readiness:

1. Official Cambridge Preparation Materials: The official Cambridge preparation materials, including books, practice tests, and online resources, are designed specifically for each exam level. These resources provide valuable insights into the exam structure, content, and question types.
2. Online Language Learning Platforms: There are numerous online platforms, such as Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone, that offer interactive language learning courses. These platforms provide comprehensive English language training, including grammar, vocabulary, listening, and speaking skills.
3. Vocabulary Building Apps: Use vocabulary building apps, like Quizlet or Memrise, to expand your word knowledge. These apps offer flashcards and interactive quizzes to help you learn and retain new words effectively.
4. English Language Podcasts: Listening to English language podcasts, such as “TED Talks,” “BBC Learning English,” or “The English We Speak,” can improve your listening skills and expose you to a variety of topics and accents.
5. Online Study Communities: Join online study communities, such as forums or social media groups, where you can connect with other Cambridge Exam aspirants. These communities provide a platform to ask questions, share resources, and seek support from like-minded individuals.

Remember to choose resources that align with your learning style and preferences. Experiment with different resources and find the ones that work best for you.

Practice Exercises and Mock Exams

To excel in the Cambridge Exam, it is crucial to practice extensively. Here are some practice exercises and mock exams that you can incorporate into your preparation routine:

1. Official Cambridge Practice Tests: The official Cambridge practice tests, available for each exam level, are an excellent resource to familiarize yourself with the exam format and question types. These tests provide an accurate representation of the actual exam and help you assess your readiness.
2. Online Practice Platforms: Many online platforms, such as Exam English, Cambridge English Online, and English Exam Ninja, offer a wide range of practice exercises and mock exams. These platforms provide instant feedback and detailed explanations for each question, allowing you to identify areas that require improvement.
3. Self-Created Practice Exercises: Create your own practice exercises by selecting passages, writing prompts, or speaking topics from authentic English resources. Time yourself and simulate the exam conditions as closely as possible.
4. Speaking Practice with a Partner: Find a study partner or join language exchange platforms to practice speaking English. Engage in conversations, role-plays, and debates to improve your fluency and accuracy.

Remember to review your performance after each practice session and identify areas where you can improve. Practice regularly to build confidence and familiarity with the exam tasks.

Strategies for Tackling Different Sections of the Cambridge Exam

Each section of the Cambridge Exam requires a specific approach and set of strategies. Here are some tips to help you tackle each section with confidence:

1. Reading Section:

• Skim the passage first to get a general idea of the content.
• Highlight or underline key information as you read.
• Pay attention to the questions’ keywords and use them to guide your search for answers.
• Practice time management by allocating a specific time limit for each passage.

1. Writing Section:

• Plan your writing before you start. Create an outline or mind map to organize your thoughts.
• Use appropriate paragraphing to structure your writing.
• Read the prompt carefully and ensure your response addresses all the requirements.
• Revise and edit your writing for clarity, coherence, and grammar errors.

1. Listening Section:

• Familiarize yourself with different accents and practice listening to a variety of English audio materials.
• Focus on the main ideas and key details while listening.
• Take notes during the listening tasks to help you remember important information.
• Use context clues to infer the meaning of unfamiliar words or phrases.

1. Speaking Section:

• Practice speaking English regularly with a native speaker or language partner.
• Use a wide range of vocabulary and grammar structures to demonstrate your language proficiency.
• Be confident and maintain eye contact with the examiner or your speaking partner.
• Listen actively and respond appropriately to the questions or prompts.

By applying these strategies, you will be able to approach each section of the Cambridge Exam with confidence and maximize your performance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Cambridge Exam

To avoid unnecessary point deductions or errors during the Cambridge Exam, be mindful of the following common mistakes:

1. Not Understanding the Instructions: Read the instructions carefully for each task to ensure you understand what is expected of you. Misinterpreting the instructions can lead to incorrect answers or incomplete responses.
2. Ignoring Time Management: Time management is crucial in the Cambridge Exam. Practice under timed conditions to improve your speed and ensure you answer all the questions within the allocated time.
3. Neglecting Grammar and Vocabulary: Poor grammar and limited vocabulary can negatively impact your performance in all sections of the exam. Regularly review grammar rules, practice using different sentence structures, and expand your vocabulary.
4. Overlooking Spelling and Punctuation: Pay attention to spelling and punctuation in the writing section. Mistakes in these areas can affect the coherence and clarity of your writing.
5. Panicking or Rushing: Stay calm and focused during the exam. Panicking or rushing through the tasks can lead to careless mistakes and poor performance.

Remember to practice mindfulness and stay composed throughout the exam. Stay alert to avoid common mistakes and give your best effort.

Conclusion and Final Tips for Success

In conclusion, passing the Cambridge Exam requires dedication, consistent effort, and effective preparation strategies. By understanding the different Cambridge exams, familiarizing yourself with the exam format and structure, and implementing proven study techniques, you can maximize your chances of success.

Utilize recommended resources, engage in regular practice exercises and mock exams, and tailor your preparation to tackle each section of the exam strategically. Avoid common mistakes by carefully reading instructions, managing your time effectively, and paying attention to grammar, vocabulary, and spelling.

Lastly, believe in yourself and maintain a positive mindset throughout your Cambridge Exam journey. With the right approach, dedication, and hard work, you can pass the exam and open doors to exciting opportunities. Good luck!

Preparación Cambridge examen 

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Errores al escribir o hablar inglés

Al escribir o hablar en inglés es posible que cometas algunos de los errores más comunes. En el siguiente post os contamos cuáles son los errores más comunes en inglés para que conozcas como evitarlos y no caer de ellos.

1. Omisión del sujeto

Estamos acostumbrados a omitir en muchas ocasiones el sujeto cuando hablamos. Sin embargo, en inglés debemos de repetirlo con cada verbo.

2. Mal empleo de preposiciones

A la hora de utilizar las preposiciones in, at y on se suele llegar a confusiones. En el caso de in se utiliza para espacios cerrados, países, periodos de tiempo largos o partes del día. Sin embargo, on se utiliza para días especiales, día de la semana, superficies, medios de transporte, partes del cuerpo, fin de semana, etc. Y, en el caso de at, se utiliza para lugares, direcciones, acontecimientos, posiciones, horas…

3. Confusión de pronombres his y her

En español, para referirnos a “su”, utilizamos este pronombre tanto en femenino como en masculino. Sin embargo, en inglés se utiliza her para femenino y his para masculino.

4. Uso excesivo del artículo «the»

En español añadimos los artículos con mucha frecuencia a las frases antes de los sustantivos. Sin embargo, en inglés ese uso es mucho menor.

5. Colocamos mal el adjetivo

Realizamos una colocación errónea del adjetivo. En español, el artículo suele colocarse detrás del sustantivo pero en inglés ese adjetivo va colocado antes del sustantivo.

6. Well y Good

Well se trata de un adverbio cuya función es describir al verbo, por lo que debe ir acompañado de este. Sin embargo, good es un adjetivo que describe a los sustantivos.

7. These y Those

En el caso de these, se utiliza para referirnos a objetos (en plural) que se encuentran cerca. Por otro lado, those se utiliza para los objetos (en plural) que se encuentran más lejos.

8. False Friends

Existen palabras muy parecidas al español que en ocasiones utilizamos creyendo que significan lo mismo. Sin embargo, tienen significados muy distintos.

Por ejemplo:

Actually, significa de “de hecho” y no actualmente. Sensible es sensato y no sensible, y, Carpet significa alfombra y no carpeta.

9. Confusión de la tercera persona del singular

En tercera persona del singular en inglés es necesario añadir una -s al final de cada verbo. Muchas veces nos olvidamos de añadirla o incluso, la utilizamos en primera o segunda persona o, incluso, en tercera persona del plural, algo que es un error.

¿Quieres mejorar tu nivel de inglés y evitar este tipo de errores?

En THE ENGLISH GROUP te ayudamos a mejorar tu inglés para que consigas hablar de forma fluida y minimizando al máximo alguno de los errores citados anteriormente. Contacta con nosotros para conocer más sobre nuestros cursos.

Some mistakes in English are very common. In this article, we are going to reveal the biggest mistakes that people make when speak or write in English.

For example: in­cor­rectly used prepo­si­tion, confuse «There vs those», omission of the subject or the articles…

Cambridge Proficiency Exam (C2)

El examen Proficiency es un examen de inglés de nivel muy avanzado, nivel C2 en el marco Europeo de Referencia de las lenguas. Es el título de mayor nivel y exigencia de la escala Cambridge.

La certificación C2 Proficiency de Cambridge English te ayuda a demostrar que dominas el inglés a un nivel excepcional. Indica que puedes comunicarte con la fluidez y la complejidad de un hablante de inglés altamente capacitado.

¿Qué habilidades certifica el C2 de Cambridge?

El haberte preparado para realizar el examen y haberlo aprobarlo implica que posees el nivel de inglés necesario para estudiar o trabajar en un entorno profesional o académico de muy alto rango y estudiar materias exigentes en niveles muy altos.

La titulación C2 Proficiency demuestra que puedes:

• Estudiar programas internacionales de postgrado y de doctorado
• Negociar y persuadir de manera efectiva frente a un nivel directivo en una empresa nacional
• Comprender las ideas principales de textos complejos
• Hablar sobre asuntos complejos o delicados y abordar con fluidez cuestiones problemáticas

Aunque el progreso dependerá del tipo de curso y del estudiante concreto, los estudiantes deberían alcanzar el nivel C2 de inglés desde 1000-1200 horas acumuladas de enseñanza. Por eso, en The Globe, hemos creado un curso de preparación para inglés C2 con el que podrás decidir tu ritmo de aprendizaje, con la máxima flexibilidad, dónde y cuándo tú quieras.

Modalidades de examen

El C2 Proficiency de Cambridge presenta dos opciones para realizar el examen: Paper-based (examen en papel) y Computer-based (examen en ordenador).

Con ambas opciones puedes obtener el mismo certificado internacionalmente reconocido, pero, aunque parezca una decisión de poca importancia, un formato u otro puede aumentar la probabilidad de éxito.

Desde The English Group te recomendamos que elijas el computer-based, ya que son muchas las ventajas que ofrece esta modalidad para el alumno, como una mejor recepción de audio, mejor control del tiempo o poder cambiar la respuesta en el momento que lo desees.

Es importante remarcar que la prueba oral de ambos formatos se realiza de forma presencial con un examinador oficial de la universidad de Cambridge.

Estructura y partes del examen Proficiency C2 de Cambridge

Los certificados de inglés como el Proficiency C2 examinan a sus candidatos de 5 destrezas básicas. Estas son: vocabulario y gramática, comprensión lectora, comprensión auditiva, uso de inglés escrito e inglés oral.

El examen Proficiency C2 agrupa estas destrezas en 4 partes que conforman la estructura: Reading and Use of English, Writing, Listening y Speaking.

La duración total del examen es de aproximadamente 3 horas y 56 minutos.

Reading and Use of English

Es el primer bloque que se realiza del examen C2 Proficiency tiene una duración de 1 hora y media, y engloba dos partes: Reading y Use of English.

Se valorará el uso de la lengua inglesa con diferentes ejercicios que evalúan tus conocimientos de gramática y vocabulario. Por otro lado, también se valorará que puedes abordar con soltura diferentes tipos de textos de cierta complejidad. Desde textos de ficción, hasta artículos periodísticos y artículos de divulgación.

La prueba de comprensión de lectura y uso de la lengua de C2 Proficiency consta de siete partes que contienen una mezcla de diferentes tipos de texto y preguntas.

Writing

En las dos partes de la prueba de expresión escrita de el examen Cambridge Proficiency tienes que demostrar que puedes escribir diversos tipos de texto en inglés. Donde deberás escribir artículos, correo electrónico, ensayo, carta, informe, revisión.

Listening

La prueba de comprensión auditiva de C2 consta de cuatro partes. En cada parte tienes que escuchar uno o más textos grabados y responder algunas preguntas. Podrás escuchar cada grabación dos veces.

Speaking

La prueba de expresión oral del examen Cambridge Proficiency consta de cuatro partes a las que te presentas junto con otro candidato. La prueba de expresión oral se realiza cara a cara, con dos candidatos y dos examinadores. Esto crea una medida más realista y confiable de su habilidad para usar el inglés para comunicarse.

La duración de esta prueba es de aproximadamente 16 minutos. Está dividida en 3 partes:

Puntuaciones de Proficiency (C2)

Recuerda que en The English Group puedes probar el curso gratis.

Cursos Extensivos de Inglés para Adultos – Exámenes Cambridge

Halloween is a holiday celebrated each year on October 31, and Halloween 2021 will occur on Sunday, October 31. The tradition originated with the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off ghosts. In the eighth century, Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as a time to honor all saints. Soon, All Saints Day incorporated some of the traditions of Samhain. The evening before was known as All Hallows Eve, and later Halloween. Over time, Halloween evolved into a day of activities like trick-or-treating, carving jack-o-lanterns, festive gatherings, donning costumes and eating treats.

Ancient Origins of Halloween

Halloween’s origins date back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain (pronounced sow-in). The Celts, who lived 2,000 years ago, mostly in the area that is now Ireland, the United Kingdom and northern France, celebrated their new year on November 1.

This day marked the end of summer and the harvest and the beginning of the dark, cold winter, a time of year that was often associated with human death. Celts believed that on the night before the new year, the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead became blurred. On the night of October 31 they celebrated Samhain, when it was believed that the ghosts of the dead returned to earth.

In addition to causing trouble and damaging crops, Celts thought that the presence of the otherworldly spirits made it easier for the Druids, or Celtic priests, to make predictions about the future. For a people entirely dependent on the volatile natural world, these prophecies were an important source of comfort during the long, dark winter.

To commemorate the event, Druids built huge sacred bonfires, where the people gathered to burn crops and animals as sacrifices to the Celtic deities. During the celebration, the Celts wore costumes, typically consisting of animal heads and skins, and attempted to tell each other’s fortunes.

When the celebration was over, they re-lit their hearth fires, which they had extinguished earlier that evening, from the sacred bonfire to help protect them during the coming winter.

Did you know? One quarter of all the candy sold annually in the U.S. is purchased for Halloween.

By 43 A.D., the Roman Empire had conquered the majority of Celtic territory. In the course of the 400 years that they ruled the Celtic lands, two festivals of Roman origin were combined with the traditional Celtic celebration of Samhain.

The first was Feralia, a day in late October when the Romans traditionally commemorated the passing of the dead. The second was a day to honor Pomona, the Roman goddess of fruit and trees. The symbol of Pomona is the apple, and the incorporation of this celebration into Samhain probably explains the tradition of bobbing for apples that is practiced today on Halloween.

Halloween Comes to America

The celebration of Halloween was extremely limited in colonial New England because of the rigid Protestant belief systems there. Halloween was much more common in Maryland and the southern colonies.

As the beliefs and customs of different European ethnic groups and the American Indians meshed, a distinctly American version of Halloween began to emerge. The first celebrations included “play parties,” which were public events held to celebrate the harvest. Neighbors would share stories of the dead, tell each other’s fortunes, dance and sing.

Did you know? More people are buying costumes for their pets. Americans spent $490 million on costumes for their pets in 2019—more than double what they spent in 2010.

Colonial Halloween festivities also featured the telling of ghost stories and mischief-making of all kinds. By the middle of the 19th century, annual autumn festivities were common, but Halloween was not yet celebrated everywhere in the country.

In the second half of the 19th century, America was flooded with new immigrants. These new immigrants, especially the millions of Irish fleeing the Irish Potato Famine, helped to popularize the celebration of Halloween nationally.

History of Trick-or-Treating

Borrowing from European traditions, Americans began to dress up in costumes and go house to house asking for food or money, a practice that eventually became today’s “trick-or-treat” tradition. Young women believed that on Halloween they could divine the name or appearance of their future husband by doing tricks with yarn, apple parings or mirrors.

In the late 1800s, there was a move in America to mold Halloween into a holiday more about community and neighborly get-togethers than about ghosts, pranks and witchcraft. At the turn of the century, Halloween parties for both children and adults became the most common way to celebrate the day. Parties focused on games, foods of the season and festive costumes.

Parents were encouraged by newspapers and community leaders to take anything “frightening” or “grotesque” out of Halloween celebrations. Because of these efforts, Halloween lost most of its superstitious and religious overtones by the beginning of the twentieth century.

Halloween Parties

By the 1920s and 1930s, Halloween had become a secular but community-centered holiday, with parades and town-wide Halloween parties as the featured entertainment. Despite the best efforts of many schools and communities, vandalism began to plague some celebrations in many communities during this time.

By the 1950s, town leaders had successfully limited vandalism and Halloween had evolved into a holiday directed mainly at the young. Due to the high numbers of young children during the fifties baby boom, parties moved from town civic centers into the classroom or home, where they could be more easily accommodated.

Between 1920 and 1950, the centuries-old practice of trick-or-treating was also revived. Trick-or-treating was a relatively inexpensive way for an entire community to share the Halloween celebration. In theory, families could also prevent tricks being played on them by providing the neighborhood children with small treats.

Thus, a new American tradition was born, and it has continued to grow. Today, Americans spend an estimated $6 billion annually on Halloween, making it the country’s second largest commercial holiday after Christmas.

Halloween Movies

Speaking of commercial success, scary Halloween movies have a long history of being box office hits. Classic Halloween movies include the “Halloween” franchise, based on the 1978 original film directed by John Carpenter and starring Donald Pleasance, Nick Castle, Jamie Lee Curtis and Tony Moran. In “Halloween,” a young boy named Michael Myers murders his 17-year-old sister and is committed to jail, only to escape as a teen on Halloween night and seek out his old home, and a new target. A direct sequel to the original “Halloween” was released in 2018, starring Jamie Lee Curtis and Nick Castle. A sequel to that—”Halloween Kills,” the twelfth film in the “Halloween” franchise overall—was released in 2021.

Considered a classic horror film down to its spooky soundtrack, “Halloween” inspired other iconic “slasher films” like “Scream,” “Nightmare on Elm Street” and “Friday the 13.” More family-friendly Halloween movies include “Hocus Pocus,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” “Beetlejuice” and “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.”

All Souls Day and Soul Cakes

The American Halloween tradition of trick-or-treating probably dates back to the early All Souls’ Day parades in England. During the festivities, poor citizens would beg for food and families would give them pastries called “soul cakes” in return for their promise to pray for the family’s dead relatives.

The distribution of soul cakes was encouraged by the church as a way to replace the ancient practice of leaving food and wine for roaming spirits. The practice, which was referred to as “going a-souling,” was eventually taken up by children who would visit the houses in their neighborhood and be given ale, food and money.

The tradition of dressing in costume for Halloween has both European and Celtic roots. Hundreds of years ago, winter was an uncertain and frightening time. Food supplies often ran low and, for the many people afraid of the dark, the short days of winter were full of constant worry.

On Halloween, when it was believed that ghosts came back to the earthly world, people thought that they would encounter ghosts if they left their homes. To avoid being recognized by these ghosts, people would wear masks when they left their homes after dark so that the ghosts would mistake them for fellow spirits.

On Halloween, to keep ghosts away from their houses, people would place bowls of food outside their homes to appease the ghosts and prevent them from attempting to enter.

Black Cats and Ghosts on Halloween

Halloween has always been a holiday filled with mystery, magic and superstition. It began as a Celtic end-of-summer festival during which people felt especially close to deceased relatives and friends. For these friendly spirits, they set places at the dinner table, left treats on doorsteps and along the side of the road and lit candles to help loved ones find their way back to the spirit world.

Today’s Halloween ghosts are often depicted as more fearsome and malevolent, and our customs and superstitions are scarier too. We avoid crossing paths with black cats, afraid that they might bring us bad luck. This idea has its roots in the Middle Ages, when many people believed that witches avoided detection by turning themselves into black cats.

We try not to walk under ladders for the same reason. This superstition may have come from the ancient Egyptians, who believed that triangles were sacred (it also may have something to do with the fact that walking under a leaning ladder tends to be fairly unsafe). And around Halloween, especially, we try to avoid breaking mirrors, stepping on cracks in the road or spilling salt.

Halloween Matchmaking and Lesser-Known Rituals

But what about the Halloween traditions and beliefs that today’s trick-or-treaters have forgotten all about? Many of these obsolete rituals focused on the future instead of the past and the living instead of the dead.

In particular, many had to do with helping young women identify their future husbands and reassuring them that they would someday—with luck, by next Halloween—be married. In 18th-century Ireland, a matchmaking cook might bury a ring in her mashed potatoes on Halloween night, hoping to bring true love to the diner who found it.

In Scotland, fortune-tellers recommended that an eligible young woman name a hazelnut for each of her suitors and then toss the nuts into the fireplace. The nut that burned to ashes rather than popping or exploding, the story went, represented the girl’s future husband. (In some versions of this legend, the opposite was true: The nut that burned away symbolized a love that would not last.)

Another tale had it that if a young woman ate a sugary concoction made out of walnuts, hazelnuts and nutmeg before bed on Halloween night she would dream about her future husband.

Young women tossed apple-peels over their shoulders, hoping that the peels would fall on the floor in the shape of their future husbands’ initials; tried to learn about their futures by peering at egg yolks floating in a bowl of water and stood in front of mirrors in darkened rooms, holding candles and looking over their shoulders for their husbands’ faces.

Other rituals were more competitive. At some Halloween parties, the first guest to find a burr on a chestnut-hunt would be the first to marry. At others, the first successful apple-bobber would be the first down the aisle.

Of course, whether we’re asking for romantic advice or trying to avoid seven years of bad luck, each one of these Halloween superstitions relies on the goodwill of the very same “spirits” whose presence the early Celts felt so keenly.

1) This American Life

This American Life is consistently ranked as the most popular podcast in the United States.  On average, there are approximately 1 million downloads of each episode.  They feature unusual and fascinating stories of real Americans from the successful radio show of the same name.  The podcast follows the same format as the radio programme.  Each episode is themed and includes a variety of true tales of everyday people.  Past themes have included “Back to School”, “Amusement Parks” and “Fear of Sleep”.

Why This American Life is a great podcast to learn English:

The podcast features interviews with real Americans up and down the country. For the language student this is a terrific way to become familiar with regional accents and the different speeds that US English is spoken.  This American Life is also an exciting listen.  Some of the stories are moving, funny and surprising.

2) Global News

Global News is produced by the BBC World Service, the world’s largest international broadcaster.  The podcast is published twice daily and is a roundup of the latest global news.  The stories have been collected from World Service news output and include interviews and location reports from BBC correspondents.

Why Global News is a great podcast to learn English:
Some of the best English you will hear will be on the BBC.  The presenters and reporters are well spoken and easy to understand.  They possess an excellent command of the English language that will help students to increase their vocabulary.

3) Scientific American Podcast: 60-Second Science

Scientific American is one of the world’s premier science magazines, bringing the latest science news, features and analysis to the general public.  The magazine’s science journalists and writers have now branched out to the podcast world with a daily update of some of the most important developments in research.

Why Scientific American Podcast: 60-Second Science is a great podcast to learn English:
Scientific American’s presenters speak with authority on many different scientific topics.  They use language that communicates the excitement of scientific research and in a way that the average person can understand.  This is particularly useful for anyone wanting to work in science-related fields or who has a love of astronomy, biology, chemistry, physics and how nature works. This podcast is a great way to learn English for advanced learners.

4) Freakonomics Radio

Freakonomics Radio is an award-winning podcast that “explores the hidden side of everything”.  It is inspired by the series of Freakonomics books and is hosted by co-authors Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner.  The podcast is an entertaining and riveting examination of many aspects of our lives.  This includes news, pop culture and global and local political issues.

Why Freakonomics Radio is a great podcast to learn English:
This is a wonderful podcast series that explores subjects from a different angles and in some depth. There is a lot of light-hearted banter between the hosts which helps to ensure that concepts, issues and points of views are understood.  The breadth of topics covered means that you will be able to pick up English for many different facets of life.

5) Here’s the Thing

Here’s the Thing is one of the most fascinating radio shows and podcasts to emerge in recent years.  American film, television and stage actor, Alec Baldwin interviews some of the biggest names in politics, the arts and show businesses.  He is a probing interviewer who quizzes his guests on why they do what they do, their inspirations and the pivotal decisions they have made in their careers.  As a prominent movie star, Alec Baldwin is able to attract high calibre guests to his show.

Why Here’s the Thing is a great podcast to learn English:
The show features learned and inspiring discussions in several fields of human endeavour, particularly those related to creativity.  Some of the guests are among the most celebrated people in their fields.  It is full of rich and engaging conversations.

Prepare for your Aptis exam in one of our courses and get the certificate you need. Limited places available!
The course is specially designed to prepare you for the exam as efficiently as possible, so that you can achieve your full potential in all parts of the test: grammar and vocabulary, speaking, writing, listening and reading.
Our teachers are experts in the test; they will guide you and provide you with the techniques necessary to maximise your chances of getting the results you need.

What is Aptis?

Aptis is an innovative English language test, developed by British Council experts in the field of evaluation. It’s aimed at people who want to certify their knowledge of the English language. The exam has been designed to evaluate your English level in a practical and precise way, providing your results between 48 and 72 hours after sitting the test. Your official certificate will be available in our offices or sent by post in the seven to ten days after receiving your results.
Businesses, universities and public institutions such as the Comunidad de Madrid are increasingly using the test to evaluate the linguistic competence of employees and students.
Aptis is an innovative multilevel English language test from the British Council.
The test is designed to make a practical and accurate assessment of your level of English according to the CEFR levels.
There are various versions of Aptis. Aptis General and Aptis for Teachers are suitable for individuals who need to demonstrate an A1-A2-B1-B2-C level of English. However if you need a C1-C2 accreditation, we recommend you take Aptis Advanced. Please remember always to confirm Aptis validity with the institution where you need to present your accreditation. (see our Aptis recognition institutions list ).
Remember! Aptis General and Aptis for Teachers are the most flexible and affordable options to demonstrate your B2 or C1 level  as a bilingual teaching teacher.
Aptis is a computer based test, including the ‘speaking component’ and it is delivered under the supervision of the British Council staff. You will receive your test results by email between 48 and 72 hours after taking the test. Your test report will be available for collection at our offices or will be sent to you by post within 7 to 10 days.
More information
info@english-group.com
606451176

Muchos estudiantes quisieran trabajar en un país de habla inglesa. Pero una de las cosas que sin duda temen es tener que enfrentarse a una entrevista de trabajo en inglés. ¿Qué vocabulario debería utilizar? ¿Cuáles son las frases y expresiones en inglés que debo usar para una entrevista de trabajo? En THE ENGLISH GROUP te preparamos para que tengas tu entrevista con éxito.

Frases y expresiones en inglés para una entrevista de trabajo en inglés

Para preparar una entrevista de trabajo en inglés, primero de todo tienes que tener un buen nivel de inglés. Si no, es más que probable que se acaben dando cuenta de que no puedes mantener una conversación.

Cuanto mayor sea la categoría del puesto al que aspiras, mayor capacidad de expresión oral se te va a exigir, especialmente si por ejemplo quieres trabajar en el mundo de los negocios y además tienes que manejar cierta jerga de tu sector, por ejemplo las finanzas, para lo que te vendria bien hacer un curso de Business English.

Dicho esto, hay algunas frases y expresiones generales que te pueden servir para una entrevista laboral.

¿Qué tipo de preguntas te haría tu entrevistador?

Más allá de los saludos de rigor, que son algo muy importante, debemos ir preparados para el tipo de preguntas que van a hacernos.

Aquí algunas ideas:

• Do you think you are qualified for this position? (¿Crees que estás cualificado para desempeñar este puesto?).
• What can you tell me about your work experience? (¿Qué puedes decirme sobre tu experiencia laboral?)
• What is your greatest accomplishment? (¿Cuál es tu mayor logro?)
• What are your weaknesses? (¿Cuáles son tus debilidades?)
• Why should I hire you? (¿Por qué debería contratarte?)
• What do you know about this company? (¿Qué sabes sobre nuestra empresa?)
• Where would you like to be in the next ten years? (¿Dónde te gustaría estar en los próximos 10 años?).

Son preguntas genéricas, donde el entrevistador espera que puedas elaborar una respuesta honesta y profesional, al mismo tiempo que das una pequeña muestra de tus conocimientos y habilidades, todo con naturalidad y con confianza, teniendo aclaro que además de lo que se dice, es muy importante el cómo se dice.

En este sentido, a veces podemos estar muy preocupados por si hablamos bien o mal en inglés, pero la actitud y la auto-confianza es algo que nos va a ayudar a vencer la timidez, que puede ser a veces uno de los mayores problemas a la hora de hablar otro idioma.

Nuestros profesores #THEENGLISHGROUP te preparan con éxito.

Respuestas en inglés a una entrevista laboral

En cuanto a las respuestas en inglés, éstas pueden ser algunas opciones:

• My years of experience in Customer Support have prepared me very well for this position. I developed my skills working with customers during three years, answering their questions and helping them to find solutions. I think that my experience will be an asset for your team.
• I have experience in Sales & Marketing in financial sector and also in Customer Support. I worked four years in a recognized call center in Spain.
• Our customer satisfaction rate increased 15 percent during my work in [the name of the Company]. During this time, I learned to use my skills and knowledge for make clients more happy.
• My weakness might be that sometimes I can be a little shy with people, although I have learn yo improve my communication skills.
• Because I can do the work with exceptional results. My experience can help you to solve your needings. I am ambitious, I know your company since many years ago and I think I can be a great addition to you team.
• The [name of the company] is the leading organization in Human Resources for corporations in UK. It’s a company I’ve known for many years; you’re well-known in the industry for the quality of your work and services.
• My long-term goals involve growing with a company where I can improve my skills and continue learning as professional in Customer Support.

Éstas son sólo algunas de las posibles respuestas, pero recuerda que debes adaptarlas al puesto concreto al que estás aspirando y la experiencia real en el área que tengas.

Prepárate con nosotros tu entrevista de trabajo!!!

aquí https://english-group.com/cursos-one-to-one-para-adultos/