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
Vocabulary & Grammar (25 questions)
Sophisticated vocabulary and nuanced grammar
Reading (6 questions)
Analyze complex academic and professional texts
Writing (2 questions)
Write detailed essays (120-150 words) on abstract topics
Listening (29 questions)
Understand lectures, interviews, and complex discussions
Speaking Interview
Discuss abstract topics and express opinions fluently
Advanced Vocabulary & Collocations
Master 7,500+ words including academic and specialized vocabulary
Academic Discourse
- analyze - examine methodically, scrutinize, evaluate
- synthesize - combine elements, integrate, amalgamate
- postulate - suggest theory, hypothesize, propose
- paradigm - framework, model, archetype
- inference - deduction, conclusion, implication
Professional Context
- implement - execute, put into effect, operationalize
- facilitate - enable, assist, expedite
- mitigate - alleviate, reduce impact, ameliorate
- leverage - utilize advantage, capitalize on
- optimize - maximize efficiency, enhance, refine
Global Issues
- sustainability - ecological balance, conservation
- demographics - population statistics, trends
- proliferation - rapid increase, spread, expansion
- disparity - inequality, gap, imbalance
- initiative - program, scheme, undertaking
Abstract Concepts
- ambiguous - unclear, vague, equivocal
- intrinsic - inherent, fundamental, innate
- pragmatic - practical, realistic, matter-of-fact
- connotation - implication, undertone, nuance
- ramification - consequence, implication, outcome
🎴 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.
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."
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
Recommended Reading
- Academic journals (simplified articles)
- The Economist, Scientific American
- TED Talk transcripts
- University-level textbook excerpts
Listening Practice
- University lectures (Coursera, edX)
- BBC documentaries
- Academic podcasts
- Conference presentations
Writing Practice
- Write essays on current events
- Summarize academic articles
- Practice timed writing (150 words/15 min)
- Get feedback from native speakers
12-Week Study Plan
Strategic preparation roadmap for Grade Pre-1 success
Build Your Base
- Take diagnostic test to identify weaknesses
- Study 50 new vocabulary words daily
- Review advanced grammar structures
- Read 2 academic articles per week
Daily Time: 2-3 hours
Develop Techniques
- Practice reading comprehension strategies
- Listen to lectures and take notes
- Write 2 practice essays per week
- Practice speaking with recordings
Daily Time: 2-3 hours
Full Section Practice
- Complete timed practice for each section
- Focus on weak areas from earlier weeks
- Practice interview with partner/tutor
- Review and expand vocabulary
Daily Time: 3 hours
Test Simulation
- Take 2-3 full practice tests
- Analyze mistakes and patterns
- Mock speaking interviews
- Light review before test day
Daily Time: 2-4 hours
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