Use of English
Transformation, word formation and precision work in Cambridge C1 style.
Lesson objectives
- Improve grammatical precision and collocational control.
- Practise exam-style transformations and word formation systematically.
- Connect structure and lexis back to the unit theme of business communication & negotiation.
Part 1 — Word formation
Instructions: Read the text below. Use the word in CAPITALS at the end of some of the lines to form a word that fits in the gap in the same line. There is an example at the beginning (0).
In today's global market, effective communication is essential for any successful business. (0) unclear (CLEAR) negotiators must be able to convey their points precisely to avoid any (1) _ between parties. During a high-stakes meeting, the (2) _ of the arguments presented can often determine the final outcome. It is also vital to maintain a level of (3) ____ when discussing sensitive contractual terms.
Sometimes, a lack of (4) _ can lead to significant misunderstandings, especially when working across different cultures. Therefore, businesses often invest in training to improve the (5) _ of their staff. A (6) _ approach to problem-solving is often required to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Ultimately, the ability to reach a (7) _ is a sign of a well-managed negotiation process.
- ____ (UNDERSTAND)
- ____ (PERSUADE)
- ____ (PROFESSION)
- ____ (TRANSPARENT)
- ____ (EFFECT)
- ____ (STRATEGY)
- ____ (SETTLE)
- ____ (SUCCESS)
Part 2 — Key word transformations
Instructions: Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between three and six words, including the word given. 1. The main problem was his lack of preparation for the meeting. | WAS → __ that he was not prepared for the meeting. 2. I only realised how much we had lost when the contract was signed. | REALIZED → What __ was how much we had lost when the contract was signed. 3. We need to focus on the budget, not on the marketing strategy. | IS → It __ on the budget rather than on the marketing strategy. 4. He didn't mention the deadline, which caused a lot of trouble. | WAS → It __ that he didn't mention the deadline. 5. I want you to sign the agreement immediately. | WANT → What __ is for you to sign the agreement immediately. 6. The delay in shipping was caused by the new regulations. | WAS → It __ the new regulations that caused the delay in shipping.
Answer key
Part 1 1. misunderstanding 2. persuasiveness 3. professionalism 4. transparency 5. effectiveness 6. strategic 7. settlement 8. successful Part 2 1. was his lack of preparation 2. I only realized 3. is to focus 4. was that 5. I want 6. was