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 pollution, waste & the circular economy.
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. For C1 level, pay attention to prefixes, suffixes, and noun/adgective/adverb transformations.
The global shift towards a circular economy is no longer a mere suggestion; it is an absolute _ (1) for the survival of our planet. For decades, our economic models have been based on a linear 'take-make-dispose' approach, leading to the _ (2) of natural resources and the massive accumulation of waste.
The _ (3) of single-use plastics has caused unprecedented damage to marine ecosystems. While some argue that the costs of transitioning to sustainable production are too high, others believe that the long-term _ (4) of inaction are far greater. We must move towards a system where products are designed for longevity and ___ (5) rather than obsolescence.
Moreover, the _ (6) of waste management systems in developing nations remains a significant challenge. Without international cooperation, the _ (7) of pollutants across borders will continue to threaten global health. Ultimately, achieving a zero-waste future requires a fundamental ___ (8) in how we perceive value and consumption.
- NECESSITY
- DEPLETION
- PERVASIVENESS
- CONSEQUENCES
- RECYCLABILITY
- INADEQUACY
- DISPERSAL
- REVOLUTION
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 factory was closed because it was polluting the local river. | WHICH The factory, ____, was closed. 2. I didn't know that the landfill was already full. | THAT It was not ___ the landfill was already full. 3. The man who lives next door is a prominent environmental activist. | LIVING The man __ next door is a prominent environmental activist. 4. We were surprised to find out that the recycling plant had shut down. | THE We were surprised __ the recycling plant had shut down. 5. The legislation was passed to reduce industrial emissions. | WHICH The legislation, __, was passed to reduce industrial emissions. 6. I don't know why they decided to ban plastic straws. | REASON I don't know _____ they decided to ban plastic straws.
Answer key
Part 1 1. necessity 2. depletion 3. pervasiveness 4. consequences 5. recyclability 6. inadequacy 7. dispersal 8. revolution Part 2 1. which polluted the local river 2. known to us that 3. living next door 4. by the fact that 5. which was passed 6. the reason why