EIKEN Grade 2 key terms

The most important point that a whole passage or talk is about. It is broader than any single detail and is often stated in the first or last paragraph.

A sentence, usually near the start of a paragraph, that states what that paragraph is mainly about. The other sentences support or explain it.

A fact, example, or reason that explains or proves the main idea. Questions often ask you to pick the detail that is actually stated in the passage.

A conclusion you reach by combining clues in the text with your own knowledge, even though the text does not say it directly. The answer must be supported by the passage.

Information in the words or sentences around an unknown word that helps you guess its meaning, such as a definition, an example, or an opposite idea.

To express the same meaning using different words. Correct answers in reading questions are often paraphrases of sentences in the passage rather than exact copies.

Reading quickly while looking only for specific information, such as a name, a date, or a number, without reading every word carefully.

Reading a text quickly to get a general sense of its topic and structure, often by looking at titles, first sentences, and headings rather than details.

A pronoun or phrase such as it, they, this, or the former that points back to something already mentioned. Questions often ask what such a word refers to.

The way sentences and paragraphs are connected so a text reads as one whole. Linking words, repeated vocabulary, and reference words all create cohesion.

A word or phrase such as however, therefore, or in addition that shows the logical link between two ideas, for example contrast, result, or extra information.

A relationship in which two ideas differ or oppose each other. Signal words include but, although, whereas, and on the other hand.

A relationship in which one event makes another happen. Signal words include because, so, therefore, lead to, and result in.

A single sentence that presents the writer's main claim or position in an essay. The body paragraphs are expected to support it with reasons and examples.

A short plan made before writing that lists the main points and the order in which they will appear, helping the essay stay organized and on topic.

A group of sentences about one point, usually beginning with an indented line. A well-written paragraph has a clear topic and supporting details.

A word or phrase used in writing to connect sentences and show how ideas relate, such as first, moreover, however, and as a result.

The number of words in a piece of writing. Exam tasks usually set a minimum and sometimes a maximum, and going far below the minimum loses points.

A short piece of writing in which you state your view on a question and support it with reasons and examples. It needs a clear position from the beginning.

Checking your finished writing for mistakes in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and word choice before you hand it in.

The general meaning or main point of a spoken message, understood without catching every word. Listening questions often ask about the gist first.

A listening question that asks for a specific piece of information, such as a time, a price, a place, or a reason, stated in the recording.

Writing short keywords, numbers, or symbols while listening so you can remember important information and answer questions afterward.

An answer choice that sounds related to the recording but is wrong, often because it repeats a word heard in the audio while changing the meaning.

The rise and fall of the voice when speaking. It can signal a question, surprise, or a change of topic, and it helps listeners follow the speaker's meaning.

The extra loudness or length given to a particular syllable or word. In English, stressed words usually carry the most important meaning in a sentence.

The ability to speak smoothly at a natural speed with few long pauses, even if some small mistakes are made. It is a key part of the speaking score.

The way words are spoken, including individual sounds, stress, and intonation. Clear pronunciation matters more than sounding like a native speaker.

The way people in a conversation take turns speaking, including how they signal they are finished and how they interrupt politely.

A question asked after someone's answer to get more information or keep the conversation going, such as "Why do you think so?" or "How often do you do that?"

A speaking task in which you describe what is happening in an image, usually covering who, what, where, and other visible details in a logical order.

A speaking task in which you act out a situation with an examiner, such as asking for information or making a request, using suitable polite expressions.