PEIC YL Quickmarch key terms

The main overall meaning or message of a spoken or written text, rather than its individual details. A listener or reader identifies it by asking what the whole passage is mostly about.

A specific piece of information inside a text, such as a name, number, time, place, or reason. Questions about detail ask you to find exactly what was said or written.

A conclusion you reach from clues in a text that are not stated directly. For example, hearing that a child takes an umbrella lets you infer that it may rain.

An answer option or piece of information that seems correct but is not. Distractors often repeat words from the text while changing a key detail such as a time or a name.

Saying or writing the same meaning with different words. Test questions often paraphrase the recording or passage, so matching exact words is not enough to choose the right answer.

A word or phrase that signals how ideas connect, such as however, first, because, or finally. Noticing these words helps you follow the structure of a talk or text.

A linking word that joins ideas and shows their relationship, for example and, but, so, although, or therefore. Connectors guide understanding of cause, contrast, and sequence.

Guessing what will come next in a text or recording by using clues already given. Good readers and listeners predict, then check whether their guess was right.

Listening once, often at normal speed, to catch the general meaning without stopping on unknown words. This is a common first task before more detailed listening questions.

Listening with a focused purpose to catch specific facts such as numbers, names, or instructions. It often requires a second listening and attention to small sound differences.

Writing short keywords, symbols, or abbreviations while listening or reading so you can answer questions later. Notes should be brief so they do not stop you following the text.

The central point a paragraph or passage develops, usually stated in a topic sentence or implied across several sentences. It is broader than any single supporting detail.

A sentence, often the first in a paragraph, that announces what the paragraph is about. The other sentences support or explain it with examples and details.

Reading quickly to get the general idea or overall shape of a text. You look at titles, first sentences, and headings rather than every word.

Moving your eyes quickly over a text to find one specific item, such as a date, price, or name. You do not read every word when scanning.

Information around an unknown word that helps you guess its meaning. Clues include examples, opposites, definitions, and the general sense of the sentence.

A word with a similar meaning to another word, such as happy and glad. Recognising synonyms helps you match a question to a text that uses different wording.

A word with the opposite meaning to another word, such as hot and cold. Antonyms in a sentence often signal contrast and can help you work out an unfamiliar word.

Working out unstated meaning by combining what a passage says with what you already know. It requires evidence from the words on the page, not personal opinion alone.

The kind of writing a passage is, such as a story, email, notice, menu, or report. Each type has typical layout, language, and purpose that help you read it.

The way information is arranged on a page, including headings, columns, pictures, and boxes. Layout helps you find information fast in notices, timetables, and forms.

A group of sentences about one point, usually starting on a new line. Paragraphs help a reader see how a longer text is organised into steps of meaning.

The way sentences in a text stick together through linking words, pronouns, and repeated ideas. Strong cohesion makes a text easy to follow from one point to the next.

Quickly listing ideas about a topic before writing, without judging or organising them yet. It gives you material to choose from when you plan your text.

Deciding what to include and in what order before you write. A short plan of main points and examples keeps a piece of writing focused and complete.

A diagram with the topic in the centre and related ideas branching out around it. It helps you see connections between ideas during planning.

A brief ordered list of the main points and supporting details you intend to write. It acts as a map for drafting and helps prevent missing or repeated ideas.

Writing a first full version of a text without worrying about perfection. Later stages of editing and proofreading improve it.

Reviewing and improving a draft for clarity, organisation, and choice of words. Editing comes before final proofreading and may involve cutting or reordering content.

Checking a finished text carefully for small errors in spelling, punctuation, grammar, and capital letters. It is the last step before handing writing in.

The level of formality in language, ranging from casual chat to formal writing. Choosing the right register means matching your words to your reader and purpose.

The person or group you are writing or speaking for. Knowing your audience helps you decide what to explain, how formal to be, and what tone to use.

The maximum or minimum number of words allowed for a written task. Going far over or under can lose marks, so count and adjust your draft.

The pattern of speakers alternating in a conversation, with one person speaking while others listen. Good turn-taking means not interrupting and knowing when to speak.

Two-way communication in which speakers respond to each other and build meaning together. It involves listening, reacting, and adjusting what you say as you go.

Short sounds or words a listener uses to show attention, such as mm-hm, yes, or really. They keep a conversation flowing without taking a full turn.

Asking a speaker to repeat, explain, or confirm something you did not understand. Phrases like Sorry, could you say that again? are useful clarification tools.

The process where speakers work together to reach understanding, using repetition, rephrasing, and checking questions. It is common when one speaker lacks a word or mishears.

The way words are spoken, including sounds, stress, and rhythm. Clear pronunciation helps listeners understand, even when grammar is not perfect.

The extra force placed on a particular syllable or word in speech. Correct word stress and sentence stress make meaning clearer and sound natural.

The rise and fall of the voice across a phrase. It can show a question, surprise, or feeling, and it helps listeners follow the speaker's meaning.