Elementary level exams

There are not many exams that you can do as an elementary learner of English. However we can recommend three options:

General English

1. The Cambridge Key English Test (KET)
2. The Pitmans Basic or Elementary Test

Business English

3. The Preliminary exam of the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry

PS: If you are ambitious, a low level exam like the Cambridge Preliminary English Test could also be good for you!

KET

The Cambridge Key English Test was introduced in 1994. It is the lowest of the Cambridge exams - for people with a basic level of communication. It is very useful as an objective - something you can get after only a short time studying English.

There are three parts to the exam:

• Reading / writing (50%)
• Listening (25%)
• Speaking (25%)

You can normally take the KET in March, May, June, November and December.

For more information on the KET exam: www.cambridge-efl.org.uk/exam/general/bg_ket.htm

Pitmans

Pitmans Examinations in English are universally recognised. They are held at 5 levels - two of these (BASIC and ELEMENTARY) are suitable for learners with an elementary level of English.

The exams test reading, writing and listening skills. Successful candidates are awarded the Pitmans Examination Institute Certificate in English. If you want a test of your spoken English, you can take the ESOL test (English for Speakers of Other Languages). These test the kind of English which you need to use in everyday life. The focus is on authentic use of the language.

Pitmans exams are extremely flexible - many Pitmans centres offer them on demand throughout the year.

LCCI Preliminary

The London Chamber of Commerce (LCCI) offers a low level English for Business exam called the "Preliminary". This is a qualification which shows that you have mastered basic practical reading and writing skills in English, and have reached a 'survival' level in business English.

The 11/2 hour examination tests your understanding of basic business-related language and terminology and your ability to communicate simple written messages within a business context.

The exam is divided into 3 sections: comprehension questions concerning a picture of a business situation, short answer questions about a business dialogue, a writing task where you have to complete a message or a memo.

You can also take the Preliminary level test of Spoken English for Industry and Commerce (SEFIC) - a 25-minute test of your ability to perform basic tasks and discuss routine work topics in English.

For more information on the Preliminary level LCCI exam: www.lccieb.org.uk