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 labour law, unions & workers' rights.
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 Advanced, pay close attention to noun suffixes, adjective forms, and negative prefixes.
The modern workplace is undergoing a period of significant __ (1) as remote work becomes the norm. While some argue that traditional unions are becoming __ (2) in the digital age, others maintain that they are essential for protecting workers' rights. Legal frameworks must be constantly updated to prevent the _____ (3) of labour standards in the gig economy.
The __ (4) of collective bargaining remains a vital tool for ensuring fair wages. However, some companies have attempted to __ (5) unionisation efforts through subtle intimidation, which is often seen as _____ (6) by legal experts.
Striking a balance between economic productivity and the __ (7) of human rights is a complex challenge. Ultimately, the __ (8) of a fair and equitable work environment depends on both robust legislation and active worker participation.
- TRANSFORMATION
- RELEVANT
- EROSION
- EFFECTIVE
- UNDERMINE
- LEGITIMATE
- PRESERVATION
- ESTABLISHMENT
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 most important thing is that we ensure all employees receive equal pay. | WHAT → __ is to ensure all employees receive equal pay. 2. I only realised how much the new labour laws would affect us when the contract was signed. | WAS → It __ how much the new labour laws would affect us until the contract was signed. 3. We need to address the lack of job security first. | THING → The __ we need to do is address the lack of job security. 4. He only decided to join the union because of the recent wage cuts. | MADE → It __ to join the union because of the recent wage cuts. 5. The reason she resigned was the lack of professional development. | WAS → __ the lack of professional development. 6. We must ensure that workers have a voice in decision-making. | IS → What __ is that workers have a voice in decision-making.
Answer key
Part 1 1. transformation 2. irrelevant 3. erosion 4. effectiveness 5. undermine 6. illegitimate 7. preservation 8. establishment Part 2 1. What matters most 2. was only when we signed 3. thing we need to do 4. was the wage cuts that made him 5. What caused her to resign was 6. is to ensure