CAE Register and Style 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which of the following sentences uses the passive voice appropriately for a formal scientific report?
- We mixed the chemicals together and then we heated them.
- The chemicals were mixed and subsequently heated. (Correct answer)
- Somebody mixed up the chemicals and then heated the mixture.
- The chemicals got mixed up and then heated by us.
Correct answer: The chemicals were mixed and subsequently heated.
The passive voice ('were mixed and subsequently heated') is preferred in scientific reports to focus on the process rather than the doer.
Question 2: In a formal review for a CAE Writing task, which connective is most appropriate to introduce a contrasting point?
- But still, on the other hand...
- However, it should be noted that... (Correct answer)
- On the flip side though...
- Yeah but at the same time...
Correct answer: However, it should be noted that...
'However, it should be noted that' is a formal connective phrase appropriate for structured written reviews in CAE-level tasks.
Question 3: A writer is producing a CAE proposal for a school principal. Which sentence is most stylistically appropriate?
- We think it would be really cool to have a new sports hall.
- It is strongly recommended that a new sports facility be constructed. (Correct answer)
- Honestly, a sports hall would be awesome for everyone.
- Building a sports hall seems like a no-brainer to most students.
Correct answer: It is strongly recommended that a new sports facility be constructed.
A proposal uses formal, persuasive language such as 'It is strongly recommended' — impersonal, objective, and professionally phrased.
Question 4: Which of the following demonstrates an inappropriate mixing of registers in academic writing?
- The study concluded that participants showed increased levels of anxiety.
- Furthermore, the data indicated a statistically significant correlation.
- In conclusion, the experiment was totally a success and the results are great. (Correct answer)
- The findings were consistent with those of earlier research in this field.
Correct answer: In conclusion, the experiment was totally a success and the results are great.
'Totally a success' and 'results are great' are informal expressions that create a register clash in academic writing.
Question 5: Which sentence is an example of nominalization that makes it appropriate for formal writing?
- We decided to investigate the problem further.
- A decision was made to conduct a further investigation into the problem. (Correct answer)
- We decided we needed to look into things more.
- Someone decided to look at the problem again.
Correct answer: A decision was made to conduct a further investigation into the problem.
Nominalizations like 'a decision' and 'an investigation' replace active verbs, creating a more abstract and formal tone typical of professional writing.
Question 6: In a CAE Writing task asking for an essay, which approach to the conclusion is most appropriate?
- So anyway, that's my take on it. To sum up, I think it's pretty clear what should happen.
- In conclusion, having considered the evidence, it is apparent that a balanced approach is required. (Correct answer)
- Well, to wrap things up, it seems like neither side is totally right or wrong.
- All in all, I guess the answer depends on what you believe personally.
Correct answer: In conclusion, having considered the evidence, it is apparent that a balanced approach is required.
A formal essay conclusion should use structured phrases like 'In conclusion, having considered the evidence,' maintaining an impersonal, analytical tone.
Question 7: Which of the following is an example of formal vocabulary that would be appropriate in a CAE essay on environmental issues?
- The planet is getting messed up because of human actions.
- Environmental degradation is predominantly attributable to anthropogenic factors. (Correct answer)
- People are basically trashing the Earth and it's getting worse.
- The Earth's going downhill fast because of what we do.
Correct answer: Environmental degradation is predominantly attributable to anthropogenic factors.
'Environmental degradation' and 'anthropogenic factors' are formal academic terms appropriate for an essay-level discussion of environmental topics.
CAE Register and Style 2
Which of the following sentences uses the passive voice appropriately for a formal scientific report?