We talked in a previous blog that some phrasal verbs need an object, i.e. they are transitive. The first type is non-separable, and the object must go after the preposition or adverb. In English Learner Dictionaries, you will see the symbol [T] to show that the verb is transitive. Common examples are: • To call

As we mentioned in our last blog about phrasal verbs, it’s no easy task to learn them. There are thousands in use every day and so it can an impossible job. So, let’s start at the easiest ones to use. Intransitive phrasal verbs don’t need an object and can stand alone.   This means that you

One major difference between native speakers and learners of English is the use of phrasal verbs. Phrasal verbs are used commonly in everyday speech and are formed by combining a verb and a preposition or adverb. But why are they so difficult? They are often not easy to work out. The words which make up

These study tips were created by our Pre-Intermediate and Intermediate level students. We hope that they will give you some inspiration. Feel free to send us your tips that might help other students. Organise your time well and plan what you are going to study. Set aims for yourself and check your progress regularly to

In Task 2, take time to analyse the question carefully and plan what you are going to write.  The examiner needs to see a relevant and coherent answer, not just one which talks generally about the topic. Make sure you understand what kind of essay it is:  advantages/disadvantages, problems and solutions etc. Use linking words

Top 5 tips to learn new vocabulary Our students tell us that vocabulary is one of the biggest problems they have when studying for the IELTS exam. Academic vocabulary holds them back in the reading, writing, listening and speaking tests. There is no easy fix for this problem, but here are a few tips to

Spring is a wonderful time, preparing for summer holidays and enjoying more and more time outdoors. It is also a busy time for exams as a lot of language learners are sitting their IELTS, FCE and CAE exams in the next coming week. 7 days to go… Try to do a complete exam under exam

Everyone learns better when they are studying in a way which suits their learning style. Personally, if I haven’t seen something written down, I will not be able to remember it. This means I am a visual learner. The other two main types are auditory (people who prefer to hear things when learning) and kinaesthetic

Here’s a description of what I like to do in my free time – fill in the prepositions (for example: in, on, with, from, across) One ___ the great things about Scotland is that you can walk or cycle anywhere you like ___ the countryside. You can also swim ___ or use a boat ___

1          Become familiar with the common topics that come up in the speaking exam such as family, places, the environment, education etc 2          If you don’t know it, don’t use it.  If you’re not sure about a piece of grammar or vocabulary before you go into the exam, don’t use it. 3          If you know