C2 Proficiency Exam Guide: Multiple Choice Cloze
Reading & Use of English Paper
Contents
Overview
Context: Part 1 of the C2 Proficiency Reading and Use of English paper presents a text with eight gaps. Each gap requires candidates to select from four word or phrase options.
Task: This part assesses advanced vocabulary knowledge, focusing on idioms, collocations, fixed phrases, and words in context. It also tests lexico-grammatical understanding, such as choosing words that fit structural patterns or agreeing with following prepositions.
Objective: To evaluate candidates' ability to discern and apply nuanced meanings of advanced vocabulary and phrases within diverse contexts.
Scoring & Marks: The eight questions are worth eight points, so one point for each. There are 72 points available for the whole Reading & Use of English paper.
How to Approach
- Contextual Interpretation: It's important to understand the broader context of the text and the specific phrase or sentence each gap is part of, especially for linkers.
- Lexical Awareness: Develop awareness of how idioms, fixed phrases, collocations, and lexico-grammatical elements work in context.
- Dictionary Skills: Develop effective use of advanced monolingual dictionaries for extending knowledge of complex vocabulary.
- Pre-reading Strategies: Practise pre-reading exercises like predicting collocations and idioms based on partial information and then confirming with the text.
Example Question
2. There is too much weight on that table. It won't ____________ for much longer.
a. restrain
b. refuse
c. resist
d. reject
Assessment Focus
Emphasis on advanced lexical understanding, including how words and phrases fit within a broader textual context.
Tips
- Utilise advanced monolingual dictionaries to deepen lexical understanding.
- Analyse texts for useful language patterns and chunks.
- Engage in activities that challenge comprehension of advanced vocabulary. i.e. word games, puzzles, apps, etc.
- Experiment with recording and recycling vocabulary in creative ways.
How It Looks
Student Suggestion
"In-depth vocabulary record keeping, especially focusing on idiomatic expressions and their context, were crucial for my success in this section." - Maria Gonzalez
Practice Exercises
We have a page on the site to practise: C1 Advanced: Multiple Choice Cloze Exercises
