Question:
have been living in Germany for 3 years, and 6 months. Since I
arrived here I speak only English since this is the language my
husband and I use to communicate. After 6 months of my arrival I
applied for my FCE and I failed. I think it was not the right time
since I had too many changes those days.
Since I got my letter I thought I would try again. The thing is that I
want to do it again next December.
I read, everything in English, I study my computer programs in
English, tutorials, courses, everything is in English. I have read all
my books (novels) in English I understand them very well. I make notes
out of them with expressions I think they are important to remember. I
listen English all the time. I write English always. My notes,
shopping lists, everything in English.
The sad part comes here. I think I haven't got that point where you
feel confident, I have thought that I am in front of a wall (advanced
student) and I simply can't cross it. I have always very obvious
mistakes. As Mexican I think I am a little effusive to speak, so to
say, at this moment I confuse his by her and forget the s in present.
When I start answering some practices I think I am blocked, I am not
exactly a nervous person, but I can't get a 90%.
How could it be that I can read any book, about almost any topic
(computer, gardening, cooking, education, even psychology and social
science) and not be able to answer right some question in the English
practice and always be in intermediate level.
I have now three months studying English with books, grammar
structures, vocabulary, and so on.
How could I help myself to reach that point of proficiency needed to
be and advanced student?
Answer:
I would suggest that you actually concentrate on preparing for teh sort
of tasks you'll have to fulfil in the exam, rather than simply
concentrating on things like grammar books.
If you're confusing things like his/her etc. you probably also need more
practice speaking to people in a context where they will correct you.
Attending a conversation class (for example at the local VHS) would help
with that. And it might also be a good idea to attend an exam
preparation class.
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