More Tips and Practice- Part 4-Key Word Transformation-Reading and Use of English

Tips for the B2 First (Cambridge English: First, FCE) Key Word Transformation (Part 4)

Part 4, the Key Word Transformation, tests your ability to paraphrase through your knowledge of grammar and vocabulary. A wide range of language could be tested here, however some patterns appear quite often. Here are some tips to follow when attempting the Key Word Transformation task:

• Look out for two necessary changes in each sentence. You will often be required to make more than one change in the transformed sentence such as using a set expression as well as a change from active to passive. The good news is you can get 2 marks for each question!
• Don’t forget to include the key word and remember not to change the form of the word.
• Use between 2 and 5 words – no more. Remember that contractions count as two words.
• Certain language points tend to feature in this task such as active to passive, formal to informal, the use of phrasal verbs and other set expressions. Make a note of any new patterns you come across each time you try a Key Word Transformation task.

Let’s Practice

For questions 1-6, complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between two and five words, including the word given. For example:

A very friendly taxi driver drove us into town.
DRIVEN
We ………………………………. a very friendly taxi driver.

Answer: WERE DRIVEN INTO TOWN BY

1) Joan was in favour of visiting the museum.
IDEA
Joan thought it would be ……………………………. to the museum.

2) Arthur has the talent to become a concert pianist.
THAT
Arthur is so ……………………………. could become a concert pianist.

3) ”Do you know when the match starts, Sally?” asked Mary.
IF
Mary asked Sally ………………. time the match started.

4) I knocked for ages at Ruth’s door but I got no reply.
LONG
I ……………….. knocking at Ruth’s door but I got no reply.

5) Everyone says that the band is planning to go on a world tour next year.
SAID
The band ……………………….. planning to go on a world tour next year.

6) I’d prefer not to cancel the meeting.
CALL
I’d rather ………………………………. the meeting.

(Source: FCE Handbook. Reproduced with permission from Cambridge English)

Check your answers⇓

Answer key

1. A GOOD IDEA TO GO
2. TALENTED THAT HE
3. IF SHE KNEW WHAT/IF SHE KNEW THE
4. WAS A LONG TIME/ SPENT A LONG TIME/ TOOK A LONG TIME
5. are SAID to be / is SAID to be / it is SAID is /it is SAID are
6. NOT CALL OFF