Study
Exam strategies
The strategies that make the difference
At the same language level, method earns marks. Here are the techniques for each paper.
Listening
4 tips- 1Read the questions BEFORE listening: they tell you what to listen out for.
- 21st listening = the general idea; 2nd listening = details (numbers, dates, reasons).
- 3Spot signal words: parce que, à cause de, cependant, en revanche.
- 4Don't panic if you miss a word — aim for the overall meaning.
Reading
4 tips- 1Skim the text (title, standfirst, opening sentences) before reading in detail.
- 2B2 texts require inference: the answer is often implicit.
- 3Identify the author's position and the opinion markers.
- 4Go back to the exact passage to justify each answer.
Speaking
4 tips- 1Structure the monologue: identify the theme, state your position, 2–3 arguments, conclusion.
- 2Note sentence starters, not full sentences — so your delivery stays natural.
- 3Key debate technique: rephrasing — « Si je comprends bien, vous suggérez que… » — buys time and shows you're listening.
- 4Defend your point of view while staying open to disagreement.