Skills for English B2 key terms

The main overall meaning or central point of a text or recording, as opposed to specific details. Candidates often identify it by summarising what the whole passage is about in one sentence.

Reading a text quickly to get a general sense of its content and structure, without reading every word. It is usually done before detailed reading to predict what the text will cover.

Moving your eyes quickly over a text to locate specific information such as a name, date, number, or keyword, ignoring everything else until you find the target.

A conclusion you draw from clues in a text or recording rather than from something stated directly. The answer is implied, so you must combine evidence with reasoning to reach it.

A sentence, usually near the start of a paragraph, that states the paragraph's main point. Recognising it helps you follow the structure of a longer text quickly.

The most important message a writer or speaker wants to communicate, which the supporting details explain or illustrate. In multiple-choice questions it is often confused with a detail that is true but secondary.

A question asking for a specific fact stated in the text, such as a figure, reason, or name. The answer is usually found by scanning the relevant section rather than reading everything.

An incorrect answer option designed to look attractive, often by repeating words from the text or describing something true but not answering the question. Learning to recognise them improves accuracy.

Restating the meaning of a text in different words while keeping the same content. Exam questions often paraphrase the passage, so matching exact words is less reliable than matching meaning.

A word or phrase with a similar meaning to another, such as 'purchase' and 'buy'. Recognising synonym pairs helps you connect a question to the part of the text it refers to.

The way sentences and paragraphs are linked so a text reads as a connected whole, using devices such as pronouns, repetition, and linking words. Cohesion helps you follow the flow of ideas.

A word or phrase that connects ideas across sentences, such as 'however', 'in addition', or 'therefore'. Identifying them shows the logical relationship between two statements.

A pronoun or similar word that points back or forward to something already mentioned, such as 'it', 'they', or 'this'. Understanding what it refers to is essential for following meaning.

The level of formality in language, ranging from casual to formal, chosen to suit the situation and reader. A text's register affects which words and structures are appropriate.

The writer's or speaker's attitude as shown through word choice and style, for example humorous, critical, or neutral. Tone questions ask you to read between the lines rather than just the facts.

The opinion or feeling a writer or speaker expresses about a subject, such as approval, doubt, or enthusiasm. It is often signalled by evaluative adjectives and adverbs rather than stated plainly.

Using clues such as a title, heading, or first sentence to guess what a text or recording will be about before or while you read or listen. It prepares your mind for the content.

Writing brief, organised notes while listening or reading so you can answer questions later. Effective notes use abbreviations and keywords rather than full sentences.

A word or phrase a speaker uses to show the direction of their talk, such as 'firstly', 'on the other hand', or 'to sum up'. They help listeners predict what comes next.

The most important word in a question or sentence, which carries the essential information. Identifying keywords before listening helps you know what to listen for.

The way words run together in natural spoken English, with sounds linking, weakening, or disappearing. It explains why familiar words can be hard to catch in fast speech.

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

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

The way a person's pronunciation reflects their region, social group, or first language. Listening practice should include different accents, since exam recordings may feature several.

A long speech by one speaker, such as a talk, announcement, or voicemail message. Listeners must follow the structure without help from another speaker's questions.

A conversation between two or more speakers, in which turns alternate. Questions may test who said what, so tracking each speaker's role is important.

The ability to speak smoothly and at a reasonable pace without too many long pauses or hesitations. It is judged on communication flow, not on having a perfect accent.

The quality of being logical and easy to follow, with ideas arranged in a clear order. A coherent answer links points so the listener can see how they connect.

The way words are spoken, including individual sounds, word stress, and sentence intonation. Clear pronunciation means a listener can understand you without effort, even if your accent remains.

The way speakers in a conversation alternate, knowing when to speak and when to let another person talk. Good turn-taking includes interrupting politely and inviting others to contribute.

A short phrase used to organise speech or manage a conversation, such as 'well', 'actually', 'by the way', or 'on the whole'. They make spoken answers sound natural and structured.

Using cautious language, such as 'perhaps', 'it seems', or 'I tend to think', to avoid sounding too certain. It is useful when giving opinions or discussing uncertain topics politely.

Extending an answer with reasons, examples, and detail instead of replying with a single short sentence. Developed answers demonstrate range and keep a conversation going.

A sentence that states the central argument or purpose of a piece of writing, usually placed near the beginning. It guides the reader and keeps the whole text focused.

Dividing writing into paragraphs, each developing one main idea. Clear paragraphing helps a reader follow your argument and is a common criterion in writing assessment.

A letter written to someone you do not know well or to an organisation, using polite, standard language and a clear structure. It typically includes a reason for writing and a closing request.

A message to a friend or colleague you know well, using relaxed language, contractions, and a conversational tone. It still needs a clear purpose and logical order.

Checking your finished writing for mistakes in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and word choice before submitting. A few minutes of proofreading often recovers marks lost to careless errors.

Reviewing and improving a draft's content, organisation, and clarity, not just its errors. It may involve cutting irrelevant points, reordering sentences, or replacing vague words with precise ones.

The minimum or maximum number of words allowed for a writing task. Going far over or under can lose marks, so candidates should practise planning to fit the required length.