Job Discussion Forums

JN · Joined: 17 Jan 2008 Posts: 214

I wasn't sure quite how to search for this see if it's been a topic before, but I have a student that needs to take a test in a couple of weeks, but she is well below the level of the test she needs to take.
Does anyone have any tips on how best to prepare her?
I am thinking about just trying to do the basic English that she really needs, but add in some vocab and, if possible, some grammar from the practice tests she has. I only will meet with her for 2-4 more hours before the test.

Sashadroogie · Posted: Thu Jun 06, 2013 7:33 am Post subject:

Which test is she taking?

JN · Joined: 17 Jan 2008 Posts: 214

She's taking a written test (from a ministry) to try to get a government job.

Shroob · Joined: 02 Aug 2010 Posts: 1339

Is it possible to get copies of previous tests? So she could familiarise herself with the style/format of the test and see what examiners are looking for in an answer?

JN · Joined: 17 Jan 2008 Posts: 214

I do have a copy of a previous test (s), but it is way above her level of English. It'd be great if I could just teach from that test, but I think I will have to try to simplify it for her. Still I was hoping there were some tips that could help her cram for the test.
Perhaps I can "revive" her memory from her English class when she was in school.

Sashadroogie · Posted: Fri Jun 07, 2013 6:47 am Post subject:

I'm sorry to say, but it doesn't look good for your student. If she simply doesn't have the requisite language knowledge or skill, then she will not reached the required standard.

Not knowing the test is a major hindrance too, for the student, so at least she can familiarise herself with the format and task instructions. But ultimately, there really isn't any way to help her achieve a pass mark in a test which you believe is too high for her to begin with.

But best of luck anyway.

JN · Joined: 17 Jan 2008 Posts: 214

Yeah, I thought it was a shot in the dark anyway to try find tips on how to cram for a test that requires knowledge that has been accumulated over the years.
Thanks for the comments, anyway.

spiral78 · Joined: 05 Apr 2004 Posts: 11534 Location: On a Short Leash

I work with proficiency tests quite a lot and if she can learn the structures around each question type, she may be able to more effectively fill in content.

However, I agree with Sasha that if the test is beyond her, it's probably not really possible (or even desirable) for her to somehow squeak through.

Sashadroogie · Posted: Fri Jun 07, 2013 12:06 pm Post subject:

I must stop posting after my morning tipple, or I won't be reacheding any standards myself...

JN · Joined: 17 Jan 2008 Posts: 214

Thanks, Spiral, for the idea. I'll think about the structures.