Vocabulary is another category under the enabling skills. In the English language as in any language, there is a proper structure of the written and spoken communication. Proper usage of “complex” words proves the level of knowledge and proficiency of the English language. Vocabulary is the appropriate choice of words to express meaning.

The score for this section is determined by reading and listening, speaking and writing. Therefore, all the sections of the exam contribute towards vocabulary score.

Challenges student face in this category

 Use of “really” and very. This is an example of adverbs that don’t add meaning to the content.
 Repeating words

Tips to improve vocabulary

Read a variety of written media.

This can be books, online blogs newspaper and so on. This helps to increase the vocabulary and learning the proper use of words and punctuation. The test taker can practice reading silently and reading aloud. It might be taken lightly but some people don’t understand a written text unless they read in a particular way. Making a habit of reading will improve the reading, oral fluency, vocabulary and pronunciation.

 Make a note of a new word

When one is reading, there will always be a new word. It is wise to keep a notepad or notebook where you can write these new unfamiliar words and use the dictionary to learn their meaning. Try to use a dictionary that will also provide examples of how to use the words in a sentence. Also, keep a dictionary by your side at all times. It cannot be hard with technology and apps. This will help improve your vocabulary and help you write like a professional.

 Improve your writing

In the PTE Academic, the test taker is assessed on the ability to write in an academic manner, therefore, the test taker must familiarize himself/herself with the proper structure for writing discourse. This means written essay has to follow the right format such as introduction, body and conclusion. It must also display understanding and be delivered in an articulate manner. To improve writing, the test taker must remember to avoid writing in first person. That is; avoid using ‘I’ and ‘we’. Moreover, the test taker may search for essay topics on the internet and practice by actually writing the essay. To improve spelling, spelling checker may be turned off to increase alertness when writing. NB!! Avoid long sentences as these require a better understanding of the language

 Listening

It is said in order to learn something, one has to be a good listener. Therefore develop high listening and concentration skills. This can be done by listening to podcasts, videos and audios delivered in the English language. You have to be aware of the type of language used, pronunciation and sentence structure. This would mean the test taker has to select listening material that is informative such as news or business reports. The vocabulary and the tone of communication used are formal.

 Speaking

Communicate with your friend and whoever may be interested in using the English language. In most case, we write what we speak so the more you are comfortable with communicating verbally in English, the easier it will be for you to write appropriate content.