Eiken Grade Pre-2 Study Guide

Advance your English to upper-intermediate level and prepare for high school success

Grade Pre-2 Overview

Upper-intermediate English proficiency

Level

Upper-Intermediate - High school intermediate

Can handle social situations and express opinions

Test Duration

Written: 75 minutes

Listening: Approx. 25 minutes

Vocabulary

~3,600 words

Social issues and opinion-based topics

Test Format

Vocabulary & Grammar (20 questions)

Advanced vocabulary and complex grammar structures

Dialogues (5 questions)

Conversations on various social topics

Reading (12 questions)

Understand longer passages on diverse topics

Writing (1 question)

Write 50-60 words expressing opinions with reasons

Listening (30 questions)

Comprehend discussions and detailed information

Essential Vocabulary

Master these ~3,500 words for Pre-2

Opinion & Discussion

  • perspective - a particular way of viewing things
    → Example: "From my perspective, online learning has both advantages and disadvantages."
  • argue - to give reasons for or against something
    → Example: "Some people argue that technology makes us less social."
  • convince - to persuade someone
    → Example: "She tried to convince me to join the debate club."
  • emphasize - to give special importance to
    → Example: "The teacher emphasized the importance of practice."
  • consequence - a result of an action
    → Example: "The consequences of climate change are serious."

Social Issues

  • environment - the natural world around us
    → Example: "We must protect the environment for future generations."
  • volunteer - to work without payment
    → Example: "I volunteer at a local animal shelter every weekend."
  • sustainable - able to continue long-term
    → Example: "We need more sustainable energy sources."
  • contribute - to give or add something
    → Example: "Everyone can contribute to reducing waste."
  • awareness - knowledge or understanding
    → Example: "Public awareness of health issues is growing."

Technology & Modern Life

  • digital - relating to computer technology
    → Example: "The digital age has changed how we communicate."
  • innovation - a new idea or method
    → Example: "Technological innovations are happening rapidly."
  • access - ability to use or obtain something
    → Example: "Not everyone has access to high-speed internet."
  • efficiency - doing something well without waste
    → Example: "Online shopping improves efficiency and saves time."
  • rely on - to depend on
    → Example: "We rely on smartphones for many daily tasks."

Grammar Focus

Key grammar for Pre-2 level

Passive Voice

Use when the action is more important than who does it

Examples:

  • ✓ English is spoken by millions of people. (present)
  • ✓ The book was written in 1950. (past)
  • ✓ The problem will be solved soon. (future)
  • ✓ The bridge has been repaired. (present perfect)

Reported Speech

Report what someone said without direct quotes

Examples:

  • ✓ Direct: "I am tired." → Reported: She said (that) she was tired.
  • ✓ Direct: "I will call you." → He said he would call me.
  • ✓ Direct: "Have you finished?" → She asked if I had finished.

Relative Clauses

Connect ideas using who, which, that, where, when

Examples:

  • ✓ The teacher who taught me was excellent. (people)
  • ✓ The book which/that I read was interesting. (things)
  • ✓ The city where I was born is beautiful. (places)
  • ✓ The day when we met was unforgettable. (time)

Sample Opinion Essay

Pre-2 writing example (50-60 words)

Topic: Do you think social media is good for society?

I believe social media has both positive and negative effects on society. On one hand, it helps people stay connected with friends and family around the world. It also provides access to information and educational resources. However, it can be addictive and sometimes spreads false information. In my opinion, we should use social media carefully and responsibly.

(58 words)

Essay Structure:

  • Opening: State your main opinion clearly
  • Body: Give 2-3 reasons with "on one hand... however..."
  • Closing: Summarize with "in my opinion" or "in conclusion"
  • ✓ Use linking words: however, also, for example, therefore
  • ✓ Show both sides before stating your position

Practice Exercise

Test your Pre-2 skills

1. The museum _____ by thousands of tourists every year.

2. She told me that she _____ to Paris the previous summer.