Eiken Grade Pre-1 Study Guide
Master proficient English for university and professional environments. CEFR B2 level preparation.
Grade Pre-1 Overview
Proficient English for academic and professional contexts
Level
Proficient - University level
Handle complex topics and abstract discussions
Test Duration
Written: 90 minutes
Listening: Approx. 30 minutes
Vocabulary
~7,500 words
Academic and specialized vocabulary
Test Format & Skills
Understand each section and what's required for success
Vocabulary & Grammar (25 questions, 25 min)
Fill-in-the-blank questions testing sophisticated vocabulary and advanced grammar patterns
- • Academic vocabulary (analyze, synthesize, paradigm)
- • Phrasal verbs & collocations (bring about, carry out)
- • Complex grammar (inversion, subjunctive, conditionals)
Reading Comprehension (6 questions, 50 min)
Answer questions based on complex academic and professional passages
- • Scientific articles (climate change, medical research)
- • Historical essays (cultural movements, social issues)
- • Business reports (economic trends, corporate strategy)
- • Opinion pieces (ethics, policy debates)
- • Identify main ideas and supporting details
- • Understand writer's tone and purpose
- • Make inferences and draw conclusions
Writing (2 questions, 50 min)
Write coherent essays (120-150 words each) on abstract topics
- • Technology & society (AI impact, digital privacy)
- • Environmental issues (sustainability, conservation)
- • Education & careers (remote work, lifelong learning)
- • Health & lifestyle (mental health, work-life balance)
- • Clear thesis and logical organization
- • Specific examples and reasons
- • Accurate grammar and sophisticated vocabulary
Listening (29 questions, ~30 min)
Understand dialogues, interviews, and lectures on complex topics
- • Business meetings and negotiations
- • Academic discussions between students/professors
- • Professional consultations
- • News reports (science, technology, social issues)
- • Lectures and presentations
- • Interviews with experts
Speaking Interview (~7 min)
Discuss abstract topics and express nuanced opinions with interviewer
- • Narration task (1 min preparation, 2 min speech)
- • 4 questions on social issues and abstract topics
- • Fluency and coherence
- • Vocabulary range and accuracy
- • Grammar complexity
- • Pronunciation and intonation
Advanced Vocabulary & Collocations
Master 7,500+ words including academic and specialized vocabulary
Academic Discourse
"Scientists analyzed the data to identify trends in climate change."
"The research paper synthesizes findings from multiple studies."
"Einstein postulated that time and space are interconnected."
"The discovery represented a paradigm shift in medical treatment."
"We can draw the inference that pollution levels have increased."
Professional Context
"The company will implement new safety measures next month."
"Technology facilitates communication between remote teams."
"Measures were taken to mitigate the environmental damage."
"Businesses can leverage social media to reach customers."
"We need to optimize our workflow to increase productivity."
Global Issues
"Environmental sustainability is crucial for future generations."
"The city's demographics have changed dramatically over the past decade."
"The proliferation of smartphones has transformed communication."
"There is a significant disparity in income levels between regions."
"The government launched an initiative to reduce plastic waste."
Abstract Concepts
"The politician's ambiguous statement left many people confused."
"Creativity is an intrinsic part of human nature."
"We need a pragmatic approach to solving this problem."
"The word 'home' has positive connotations of warmth and safety."
"The ramifications of this decision will affect future generations."
Essential Collocations for Pre-1
Verb + Noun
- • conduct research/an experiment
- • raise awareness/concerns
- • address an issue/a problem
- • draw a conclusion/attention
- • pose a threat/a challenge
Adjective + Noun
- • pressing issue/concern
- • viable solution/alternative
- • profound impact/effect
- • compelling evidence/argument
- • widespread belief/practice
Adverb + Adjective
- • highly effective/controversial
- • increasingly common/important
- • closely related/associated
- • widely accepted/recognized
- • significantly different/higher
Practice Tip: Learn words in context, not isolation. Using collocations makes your English sound natural and fluent!
Vocabulary Practice Exercise
Fill in the blanks with the most appropriate word
Choose the correct word to complete each sentence. This mimics the style of Eiken Pre-1 vocabulary questions.
1. The government's new policy aims to _______ the economic gap between rich and poor regions.
2. Scientists have _______ that climate patterns may shift dramatically over the next century.
3. The company implemented several strategies to _______ its market position.
🎴 Eiken Pre-1 Vocabulary Flashcards
Master these high-frequency Eiken Pre-1 words. Click cards to flip!
These words commonly appear in Eiken Pre-1 reading passages and listening sections
Advanced Grammar & Syntax
Master sophisticated structures for Pre-1
Complex Sentence Structures
Use subordinate clauses and sophisticated connectors
Examples:
- ✓ Despite economic challenges, the company managed to expand into new markets.
- ✓ Having considered all options, we concluded that further research was necessary.
- ✓ Not only does this approach save time, but it also reduces costs significantly.
Advanced Passive & Causative
Express actions with nuanced agency and formality
Examples:
- ✓ The policy is being implemented across all departments.
- ✓ She had the document reviewed by legal experts.
- ✓ The findings are reported to have significant implications.
Hedging & Academic Language
Express uncertainty and avoid overgeneralization
Examples:
- ✓ The results suggest that further investigation may be warranted.
- ✓ It appears that the correlation could be attributed to multiple factors.
- ✓ To some extent, this phenomenon tends to occur in urban areas.
Grammar Practice: Fix the Sentences
Each sentence has one grammatical error. Can you identify and fix it?
1. Despite of the bad weather, the event went ahead as planned.
Show Answer
✓ Correct: Despite the bad weather...
"Despite" is already a preposition, so "of" is unnecessary.
2. Not only the policy reduces costs, but it also improves efficiency.
Show Answer
✓ Correct: Not only does the policy reduce costs...
After "Not only" at the start, use inversion: auxiliary verb + subject + main verb.
3. The data suggests that more research may need in this area.
Show Answer
✓ Correct: ...more research may be needed in this area.
Passive voice required: "may be needed" (not "may need").
4. Having been considered all factors, we decided to proceed.
Show Answer
✓ Correct: Having considered all factors...
Use active "Having considered" (we did the considering), not passive.
Reading Comprehension Strategies
Tackle complex passages efficiently and accurately
Before Reading
Skim for Main Idea
- • Read title and first/last paragraphs
- • Note topic sentences
- • Identify author's purpose
Read Questions First
- • Underline key words
- • Note what info to look for
- • Predict answer locations
Active Reading
- • Circle transitions (however, moreover, therefore)
- • Star (*) main arguments and conclusions
- • Number steps in processes
- • Mark cause-effect relationships
- • Identify patterns: Problem-Solution, Cause-Effect, Compare-Contrast
Time Management: 50 min total
~8-10 minutes per passage • Don't get stuck—mark and move on • Return to difficult questions if time remains
Practice Reading Passage
The proliferation of artificial intelligence in various sectors has sparked considerable debate among economists and policymakers. While proponents argue that AI-driven automation enhances productivity and creates new employment opportunities in tech-related fields, critics raise concerns about widespread job displacement, particularly in manufacturing and service industries. A recent study by the International Labour Organization suggests that approximately 23% of current jobs could be automated within the next decade, though the same research indicates that AI may generate entirely new categories of work that do not yet exist.
The ramifications extend beyond employment. AI systems' decision-making processes often lack transparency, a phenomenon known as the "black box" problem. This opacity poses ethical dilemmas, especially in critical areas such as healthcare diagnostics and criminal justice. Moreover, the concentration of AI development among a few major corporations raises questions about equitable access to these technologies and their benefits.
To mitigate potential negative impacts, experts recommend a multi-faceted approach: investing in education and retraining programs, establishing regulatory frameworks for AI deployment, and fostering international cooperation to address cross-border challenges. Only through such comprehensive strategies can societies harness AI's potential while safeguarding against its risks.
Comprehension Questions:
1. What is the main purpose of this passage?
Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (b)
The passage presents a balanced view, discussing both AI's potential benefits (productivity, new jobs) and concerns (job displacement, ethical issues), then suggesting solutions.
2. According to the passage, what does the "black box" problem refer to?
Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (b)
The passage states: "AI systems' decision-making processes often lack transparency, a phenomenon known as the 'black box' problem." This directly defines it as a transparency issue.
3. What can be inferred about the author's perspective on AI?
Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: (c)
The conclusion suggests "societies can harness AI's potential while safeguarding against its risks" through proper strategies, indicating a cautiously optimistic view with proper management.
Practice Tip: Read one academic article daily and create 3 comprehension questions. This builds both reading speed and question-prediction skills!
Essay Writing Strategies
Craft compelling 120-150 word essays
Essay Structure
Introduction (20-30 words)
Paraphrase the question and state your position clearly
Example: "The debate surrounding renewable energy adoption has intensified. In my view, governments should prioritize this transition despite economic challenges."
Body Paragraphs (70-90 words)
Present 2-3 supporting arguments with specific examples
Use phrases like: "Firstly...", "Moreover...", "For instance...", "This is evidenced by..."
Conclusion (20-30 words)
Summarize main points and restate position
Example: "In conclusion, while challenges exist, the long-term benefits of renewable energy make it imperative for governmental action."
Sample Essay (148 words)
Topic: "Should governments invest more in space exploration?"
INTRODUCTION
Space exploration has long captivated humanity's
imagination. While some argue that such
investments are excessive,
I firmly believe governments should
allocate more resources to space research.
BODY
Firstly, space technology yields
practical benefits for Earth. Satellite systems
facilitate global communications and
weather forecasting,
significantly improving disaster
preparedness. Moreover, space research
drives innovation in fields like medicine and materials
science. For instance, technologies
developed for space missions have led to advancements in
water purification and medical imaging.
Furthermore, space exploration inspires
future generations to pursue careers in science and
technology,
which is crucial for addressing global
challenges.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, space exploration merits
increased governmental investment due to its
technological, scientific, and inspirational
benefits.
Why this essay works:
✓ Clear thesis statement
✓ 3 specific supporting arguments
✓ Natural use of transitions (Firstly, Moreover,
Furthermore)
✓ Concrete example (water purification, medical imaging)
✓ Advanced vocabulary (captivated, facilitate, merits)
✓ Proper conclusion that restates main idea
Useful Academic Phrases
Introducing Arguments
- • It is widely acknowledged that...
- • A significant factor is...
- • One cannot overlook...
Providing Examples
- • To illustrate this point...
- • A case in point is...
- • This is exemplified by...
Contrasting Ideas
- • Nevertheless...
- • Conversely...
- • On the contrary...
Speaking Test Preparation
Master the interview format
Interview Format (10 minutes)
- Self-introduction (1 min) - Background, interests, goals
- Card description (2 min) - Analyze visual prompt, present ideas
- Q&A on card (4 min) - Discuss topics in depth, give opinions
- General discussion (3 min) - Abstract topics, hypothetical scenarios
Fluency Tips
- Use fillers naturally: "Well...", "Actually...", "I mean..."
- Paraphrase if you forget a word
- Maintain natural pace, don't rush
- Self-correct naturally if needed
Content Tips
- Give extended answers (3-4 sentences minimum)
- Provide specific examples from experience
- Express opinions with reasoning
- Consider multiple perspectives
Advanced Techniques
- Use discourse markers effectively
- Employ sophisticated vocabulary naturally
- Vary sentence structures
- Show critical thinking skills
Study Resources & Practice Materials
Essential materials to prepare effectively for Pre-1
Official Materials
- • Eiken Pre-1 Official Textbook (過去問題集)
- • Past exam papers (last 3-5 years)
- • Official vocabulary list (7,500 words)
- • Sample essays and scoring rubrics
Tip: Do at least 3 full past papers under exam conditions to build stamina and time management
Reading Materials
- • The Economist - Global affairs, business
- • Scientific American - Science, technology
- • National Geographic - Environment, culture
- • The Guardian - Opinion pieces, analysis
- • Academic journal abstracts (Google Scholar)
- • TED Talk transcripts with video
Goal: Read 2-3 articles daily, summarize main ideas, learn 10-15 new words per article
Listening Resources
- • BBC World Service - News, interviews
- • TED Talks - Academic presentations
- • Coursera/edX lectures - University-level content
- • NPR podcasts - In-depth discussions
- • YouTube: Documentary channels (Vox, Veritasium)
- • Academic conference talks (MIT OpenCourseWare)
Practice: Listen at 1x speed, take notes, answer comprehension questions you create
Writing Practice
- • Write 2-3 essays weekly on Eiken topics
- • Time yourself: 120-150 words in 25 minutes
- • Use essay templates and academic phrases
- • Get feedback on grammar, structure, vocabulary
- • Study model essays from past exams
- • Practice paraphrasing complex ideas
Focus: Clear thesis, 2-3 supporting points, specific examples, strong conclusion
Apps & Online Tools
- • Anki/Quizlet - Vocabulary flashcards
- • Grammarly - Writing feedback
- • ELSA Speak - Pronunciation practice
- • Eiken Official App - Practice questions
- • Memrise - Word memorization
- • Readlang - Reading with translations
Daily Habit: 20-30 minutes of vocab review + pronunciation drills
Speaking Practice
- • Find a conversation partner or tutor
- • Practice interview questions regularly
- • Record yourself and self-evaluate
- • Join English discussion groups
- • Use italki, Preply for online tutors
- • Shadow native speakers (repeat after them)
Mock Tests: Do at least 5 full speaking interviews before test day
Keys to Success
Study 2-3 hours daily for 3-6 months before the exam
Complete at least 5 full mock exams under real conditions
Identify weak areas early and dedicate extra time to them
Speak English daily, even if just practicing alone or recording
Listening Strategies
Master the 29-question listening section
Part 1: Dialogues (10 questions)
Strategy
- • Focus on the second speaker's response
- • Listen for tone and attitude
- • Identify implicit meaning
Common Topics
- • Business meetings & negotiations
- • Academic discussions
- • Professional consultations
Part 2: Passages (12 questions)
Strategy
- • Read questions first (if possible)
- • Note key dates, numbers, names
- • Listen for signpost words
Common Topics
- • Science & technology news
- • Social issues & trends
- • Historical events
Part 3: Real-Life Situations (5 questions)
Strategy
- • Understand context quickly
- • Focus on specific information
- • Note conditions & exceptions
Common Topics
- • Announcements & instructions
- • Radio programs
- • Voicemails & messages
Pro Tips for Listening Success
Before Audio
Read all answer choices and predict content
During Audio
Take brief notes, don't fixate on unknown words
After Audio
Trust your first instinct, move on quickly
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from typical Pre-1 candidate errors
Vocabulary Section Mistakes
❌ Wrong
- Confusing similar-sounding words
- Ignoring collocations
- Choosing based on partial meaning
✓ Correct Approach
- Study words in context, not isolation
- Learn word families and collocations
- Read full sentence before choosing
Writing Section Mistakes
❌ Wrong
- Writing too much or too little
- Poor paragraph organization
- Using informal language
- Not addressing all points
✓ Correct Approach
- Aim for 120-150 words exactly
- Use clear intro-body-conclusion structure
- Maintain formal academic tone
- Check all points are covered
Speaking Interview Mistakes
❌ Wrong
- Giving one-word answers
- Memorizing scripted responses
- Speaking too fast or too slow
- Avoiding difficult questions
✓ Correct Approach
- Elaborate with examples and reasons
- Speak naturally, show personality
- Maintain steady, clear pace
- Attempt all questions with reasoning
Sample Essay Topics
Practice with authentic Pre-1 level prompts
Technology & Society
Question: Some people argue that artificial intelligence will create more jobs than it eliminates. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer.
Environment
Question: Should governments impose stricter regulations on single-use plastics, even if it increases costs for businesses and consumers? Explain your position.
Education
Question: Some universities are replacing traditional lectures with online courses. Do you think this is a positive or negative development for higher education?
Work & Lifestyle
Question: Remote work has become increasingly common. Do you believe companies should offer employees the choice to work from home permanently? Why or why not?
Interview Practice Questions
Prepare for the speaking test with these authentic prompts
Card Description Practice
You have 1 minute to study the card, then 2 minutes to describe the situation and express your opinions.
Sample Scenario:
A company is deciding whether to implement a four-day work week. The illustration shows employees in a meeting discussing the potential benefits and drawbacks of this policy change.
- • What are the potential benefits for employees?
- • What concerns might management have?
- • How might this affect productivity?
- • What is your personal opinion on this matter?
Follow-up Question Practice
Practice answering these questions with extended responses (3-4 sentences minimum).
1. Do you think companies have a responsibility to prioritize employee well-being over profits?
2. How do you think technology will change the nature of work in the next decade?
3. What role should governments play in regulating working conditions?
4. Do you believe that automation will lead to widespread unemployment?
General Discussion Topics
Be prepared to discuss abstract topics and hypothetical scenarios:
Society & Culture
- • Social media's impact on relationships
- • Cultural preservation vs. globalization
- • Generation gaps in values
Science & Technology
- • Privacy in the digital age
- • Space exploration priorities
- • Ethical implications of AI
Global Issues
- • Climate change responsibility
- • Economic inequality solutions
- • International cooperation
Track Your Progress
Use this checklist to monitor your Pre-1 preparation
Vocabulary Milestones
Writing Milestones
Listening Milestones
Speaking Milestones
📝 Quick Practice Test
Test your Eiken Pre-1 knowledge with these sample questions
Question 1 - Vocabulary
The new medication helped to ___ the patient's symptoms, though it did not cure the underlying condition.
Question 2 - Vocabulary
The scientist's findings were ___ by subsequent research conducted by other institutions.
Question 3 - Vocabulary
The economic situation continued to ___ despite the government's intervention measures.
Question 4 - Vocabulary
The journalist was asked to ___ the financial records before publishing the article on corporate fraud.
Question 5 - Vocabulary
The proposal seemed ___ at first, but further analysis revealed significant practical obstacles.
Eiken Pre-1 Test Tips
- Read all options carefully - distractors are often similar in meaning
- Pay attention to collocations (words that naturally go together)
- Context clues in the sentence can help eliminate wrong answers
- Time management: ~1 minute per vocabulary question