Part C: reference, meaning in context and purpose
The question types that are not about facts.
12 minutes · A free lesson from Reading
About half of the Part C questions are not about facts at all. They ask what a word refers to, what a phrase means here, or why the writer included something.
Ask how, and the most common answer is a single question: "Do you have any questions?" or "Is that all clear?" The trouble is that such questions are almost always answered with a polite "yes".
such questions refers to the two questions in the sentence before.
Lesson quiz
Check what you have learned. Choose an answer to see whether it is right, and why.
Quick check: Where do you usually find what "this" or "such questions" refers to?
- In the last paragraph
- In the sentence or two before it
- In the title
Show the answer
B: In the sentence or two before it — Reference words point back.
Quick check: How should you check a "meaning in context" answer?
- Put each option in place of the phrase and reread
- Choose the longest option
- Choose the dictionary meaning
Show the answer
A: Put each option in place of the phrase and reread — The right option keeps the writer's meaning in that paragraph.
Quick check: Which phrase often signals the writer's doubt?
- “clearly”
- “always”
- “less certain”
Show the answer
C: “less certain” — Words like yet, however and less certain mark the writer's own view.
Marked as soon as you finish — free with an account.Practise now
Marked as soon as you finish — free with an account.Practise now