Diagnostic test 1

Present tenses
Write the correct form of the words in 12 Hewitt certainly ................................... .
brackets to complete the sentences. Use only (not/play) his best tennis at the moment.
the present simple (e.g. arrives/doesn't arrive) 13 Hurry up and buy your sandwich! Here
or the present continuous (e.g. is/are arriving). .................................... (come) the bus!
Example 14 'Sorry I haven't phoned. I lost my address
It's nearly half past ten ... .P.IJ..~.~HM. .... book.' 'Oh, you ................................... .
(they/always/eat) this late in Spain? (always/lose) your address book! Why don't
you keep everything on the computer?'
Carina .................................... (enjoy)
hospital dramas so she 15 The part-time philosophy course
.................................... (watch) ER every .................................... (consist of) twenty
week; evening lectures and five full-day seminars.
2 Japanese cooking ................................... . 16 .................................... (you/think) we should
(not use) a lot of dairy food. allow more than an hour to get to the
station?
3 .................................... the interest rate
.................................... (usually/change) 17 We can't leave a ten-year-old child on her
because of inflation? own. What on earth ................................... .
(you/think) of?
4 Graham won't give up cigarettes. He
.................................... (smoke) about fifty 18 Don't ask him! He ................................... .
a day. (be) really difficult at the moment.
5 Britney Spears ................................... . 19 Would you like to try these champagnes? We
(stay) in the Waldorf Astoria on this visit to . ................................... (taste) them to write
New York. a review for the wine club newsletter.
6 We .................................... (take) a 20 We .................................... (guarantee) that
two-week winter holiday in Gstaad every you won't be disappointed with the
year. performance of our new washing machine.
7 I .................................... (feed) the
neighbour's cat this week while she's in
hospital.
8 The court ................................... .
(not/usually/send) first-time offenders to
prison, but it is possible in exceptional
circumstances.
9 Then you .................................... (mix) all
the ingredients together quickly and
.................................... (put) the mixture in
a hot oven for twenty minutes.
10 I can see the leaders. The three front runners
.................................... (turn) the corner into
the stadium complex now.
11 Julie, listen to this. It's Thursday evening
and I .................................... (get) home
really late from the club, and she
.......... " ........................ (say) to me .. .
Diagnostic test 1 key" f)~~:~'tfi
10
Diagnostic test 2
Past tenses
Underline the correct verb form in italics. 15 The early rains were a disappointment as we
expected/had expected to reach the coast
Example before the monsoon set in.
The Incas didn't have/weren't having a written
script. 16 At the time of the take-over the company's
shares had declined/had been declining in
The pool in the hotel was absolutely filthy so value for several months.
we didn't swam/swim in it. 17 Brendan was surprised to find the gas tank
2 We stoped/stopped at the first service station empty as he had only been using/had only
we came across. used the truck twice that week.
3 The thieves ran out of the bank, jumped/were 18 Before the advent of satellite television
jumping into their car and sped away up the viewers didn't used to have/use to have a
high street. - very wide selection of channels.
4 Rameses II was ruling/ruled over ancient 19 The staff were used/used to be paid weekly
Egypt for more than fifty years. but now they receive a monthly salary.
5 Intervention was urgently required - the 20 Things have certainly changed - there would
starving children grew/were growing weaker be/used to be loads of small shops around
by the day and there was/was being little here when I was young.
sign of an end to the drought.
6 By the middle of the nineteen sixties many
parts of Europe experienced/were
experiencing a tremendous economic boom.
7 Jim left/was leaving on the early flight the
next morning so he made his excuses and left
the party before midnight.
8 Many of the survivors worked/were working
in the fields when the earthquake struck.
9 Phil stood at the door soaked from head to
toe; he had been running/was running in the
rain.
10 Denise had to leave school early on
Wednesday because she took/was taking her
driving test.
11 By the third month of the war rebel forces
took/had taken most of the province.
12 At the time of the trial last summer Hinkley
had been/was in prison for eight months.
13 We missed the first act of the play because
when we arrived at the theatre the
performance already started/had already
started.
14 At midnight Mr Rochester had climbed/
climbed the stairs and went into his
bedchamber.
Diagnostic test 2 keg ~:p~~~.
11
 Diagnostic test 3
Past to present tenses
Underline the best choice of words in italics. All of the sentences below contain a
grammatical mistake. Find and correct the
Example
mistakes.
Has the package arrivedlDid the package arrive
safely yesterday? Example
My family is li'o'iAg in this country for over twenty
We still hold meetings in the old manor years. . .... 11M. .1?e,m.~/I:r!M.?w.d.. ...
house, which stood/has stood on the same
spot for over two hundred years. 11 Hurry up! We have been waited for you for
twenty minutes! .......................... .'..... .
2 Beethoven has written/wrote some of the
most accomplished symphonies you will ever 12 We have been using this supplier since two
listen to. years and we've never had problems before.

3 I didn't see/haven't seen Keith at all

yesterday morning. 13 There were seven police dramas on TV so far
this week - and it's only Thursday!
4 The nurses' strike increased/has increased
the current waiting time for minor surgery by
two to three weeks. 14 Only halfway through the financial year and
British Aerospace already announced that its
5 Only one British female astronaut spent/has pre-tax profits will be down by seventy per
spent time on a space station. cent. ................................ .
6 News is coming in of an incident in 15 The Indian Government has imposed a ban
Parliament. A group of armed men on tiger hunting five years ago.
surrounded/has surrounded the building and
is holding hostages.
16 Several drivers have been badly injured
7 He's really much more handsome in the flesh during the 1999 racing season.
than I thought/have thought.
8 We eat/have been eating much less beef 17 This farm is growing organic vegetables for
recently because of the crisis, but we think more than ten years now.
it's safe to start again now.
9 This country has been we/coming/has 18 She has been playing with the symphony
welcomed the latest influx of political orchestra three times this season.
refugees from the Balkans.
10 The incidence of street crime has risen/has 19 'I haven't seen you for ages.' 'No, I've
been rising by five per cent in the last two travelled in South-East Asia.'
months.
20 Oasis has been recording a new album. It
was a great success on its release last week.

Diagnostic test 3 key .. pa~~:~~~~1

12
Diagnostic test 4
The future (1)
Write the correct form of the verb in brackets 11 I've won the jackpot on the lottery and I
to complete the sentences. Use one of these .................................... (spend) it all straight
structures: will, shall, be going to, will be + away!
-ing, will have + past participle, will have +
12 I've just been to the council meeting. It looks
been + -ing, present continuous or present like they .................................... (build) a
simple. new shopping centre in town.
Example 13 I've just heard a rumour that your favourite
'Have you booked a holiday yet for this year?' jazz singer .................................... (come) to
'Yes, we ........ ./if.~.~..... ..... (take) a cruise give a concert in our village!
around the Caribbean in November.'
14 'Have you looked at the new financial report
I've taken the 10.40 to Bristol every Friday yet?' 'No, but I .................................. ..
for three years and it's always half empty. (stay) at home this evening so I can study it
Believe me, you .................................. .. then.'
(fin?) a seat.
15 The takeover is going ahead, I'm afraid, so
2 My father's approaching retirement age, so we .................................... (make) some
he .................................... (probably/sell) the redundancies in the New Year.
business nex~ year.
16 Erm, I don't want to be rude, but
3· Going by all lof the recent polls, the social .................................... (you/stay) with us for
democrats .................................... (win) next long when you come over to Britain?
week's election by a huge majority.
17 The plClne .................................... (take off)
4 Look at those black clouds. It at 10.45, so we had better check in by 8.45.
.................................... (rain) this afternoon.
18 Sunrise .................................... (be) at 6.40
5 I'm going on holiday tomorrow. This time a.m. tomorrow.
next Tuesday afternoon I
19 Mr Fellows .................................... (play)
.................................... (ski) down a
golf tomorrow afternoon, as usual, so you
mountain!
can catch him on the golf course.
6 At our next wedding anniversary we
20 The decorator won't finish the work until you
.................................... (be/married) for
.................................... (pay) him what you
twenty-five years.
owe.
7 'You speak very good Chinese.' 'Thank you.
It's not surprising; I .................................. ..
(live) in BeiFng for eight years next month.'
8 Sit down and watch the TV; I
.................................... Uust/finish) this letter
quickly before I join you.
9 Your driving test is next Tuesday, so
.................................... (we/have) a two-hour
session on Monday?
10 'Have your parents decided whether you can
come to the festival next weekend?' 'Not yet,
but they can't stop me. I
.................................... (come) with you.'

13
 Diagnostic test 5
The future (2)
Choose the correct word or phrase (a-c) to Now choose two correct answers (a-c) to
complete the sentences. complete the sentences.
Example Example
Shh! You .. ..I? .. disturb your mother. Everyone was getting impatient. The trial of the
a are due to b are not to c are to century ........ b.~.f;: ....... start in two minutes.
a would to b was to c was due to
The Mayor of Paris ........ attend the service
tomorrow before leaving the city. 11 Crash investigators ........ release their
a is about to b is to findings to the press later today.
c is on the point of a are about to b are due to c are to
2 These pills are ........ with any other medicine. 12 The exam starts at three ......... arrive at the
a not to be taken b not take hall at least five minutes before the start.
c due to be taken a Be sure to b You are to
3 The timetable ........ be published on 1st May. c Be bound to
a is due to b is about to 13 Hurry up. The tour group is ......... If you
c is on the point of don't come now, they'll go without us!
4 Hurry! Run! The train's just ........ leave a to leave b about to leave
without us! c on the point of leaving
a to b due to c about to 14 Do you believe we are ........ a really exciting
5 Because of the erosion of their habitats, breakthrough here?
some species are ........ extinction. a on the point of b forthcoming
a about to b on the verge of c on the verge of
c likely to 15 Standing underneath the stricken building, no
6 He's very ........ to accept the position as we one seemed aware of the ........ danger.
can't match his current salary. a impending b imminent c bound
a unlikely b likely c sure 16 'Do you think the judges will like my entry?'
7 We ........ promote trainees within two to 'Of course. They're ........ to like it!
three years of qualifying. a sure b bound c unlikely
a are about to b expect to 17 We ........ one hundred per cent customer
c anticipate to satisfaction with this new vacuum cleaner!
8 'I'm sorry about spilling wine on your dress a hope b guarantee c anticipate
last week.' 'Don't worry. I ........ take it to the 18 The society ........ expand its membership by
cleaner's anyway.' twenty per cent in the next year.
a was going to b would c was to a hopes to b may c envisages
9 As he raised his arm she realised that he 19 Look, I didn't put the rubbish out this
........ strike her again. morning because I thought you ........ do it!
a was due to b was to a were going to b would c were to
c was about to
20 The new department store ........ on 2nd
10 I'm really sorry. We ........ to stop at a service January, but the explosion prevented this.
station and phone you, but we didn't want to a was to open b would open
waste any more time. c was to have opened
a were due to b were going to
c were to

Diagnostic tesi:~5 lieg":lf~Il'

14
Diagnostic test 6
Negation
In each group of sentences below (a-c), two 10 ........ come with us to the beach tomorrow?
are grammatically correct. Tick (V') the correct a Don't you
sentences. b Will you
c Won't you
Example
a He's no actor! V' b He's not an actor! V' 11 Many managers ........ prepare for meetings.
c He's any actor! a don't hardly
b hardly ever
'Where's Suzy?' c hardly
a 'She isn't at home.'
12 That kind of crime ........ these days, does it?
b 'She's not at home.'
a rarely happens
c 'She's no at home.'
b doesn't rarely happen
2 Hannah ........ tell the rest of the family. c seldom happens
a begged her sister don't
b begged her sister not to Rewrite the underlined part of each sentence
c didn't beg her sister to to make it negative. Use not, n't, neither ... nor
3 He found her ....... . or a negative prefix.
a not attractive, but strangely appealing. Example
b inattractive, but strangely appealing. I expect there'll be a movie on the flight.
c unattractive, but strangely appealing. 1.·d.Q·ff/t:·t?x.fmt·tIw.:~u.b.~·tk."H!!P.Yr.~lJt.tM.fo!Jht..
4 a They'll get no help from Janice.
b They'll get none help from Janice. 13 The professor ordered him to leave the room.
c They won't get any help from Janice.
5 There were ........ bookings for the restaurant 14 Having seen the film, I don't understand the
on its opening night. hype.
a any
b few 15 Many antique watches of this type are
c no available these days.
6 He says he ........ about the robbery.
a knows nothing 16 They've booked either to go on a cruise or to
b doesn't know anything visit the Pyramids.
c doesn't know nothing
7 a We think that the conference won't be a 17 The followers of this sect believe that there is
failure. life after death.
b We don't think the conference to be a
failure. 18 Have you seen Harrison Ford's new film yet?
c We don't think that the conference will be
a failure.
19 The suspects denied all of the allegations
8 The woman in the photo ........ to be happy. against them.
a seems not
b doesn't seem
c isn't seem 20 The new Financial Director was generally
thought to be honest.
9 Hasn't Stella contacted her solicitor yet?
a Yes, she has. b Yes, she hasn't.
c No, she hasn't.

Diagnostic test 6 Hey .. p~~e'~~~'

15
 Diagnostic test 7
Questions
Nine of these questions contain mistakes of 12 Do you know if the victim had been staying in
grammar or formality. Tick [vI the correct this hostel immediately prior to the attack?
questions, then find and correct the mistakes.
Example 13 Honestly, I can't trust you to do anything
What did you buy else at the shops? right. You can't have lost your passport.
.w.w. fM~.r;I).d.y.f1./1.(.bUjl. M. .tI:r&JMp.?f. Could you tell me where you put it after the
holiday?
1 What means 'heliotrope'? I can't find it in the
dictionary.
14 'They didn't give the concert after all last
night.' 'Did they? Why not?'
2 How long you had been living there before
the war broke out?
15 'I love seeing Robbie Williams live. He's such
a good dancer.' 'Yes, isn't he?'
3 According to the recipe, what time should I
turn the oven off?
Write an appropriate question tag (e.g. isn't
4 'There was an awful explosion in town it?) to complete each question.
yesterday.' 'Really? What did happen?' Example
You don't really believe in ghosts, .... M.)'l!!¥. ... ?
5 Who exactly presents the certificates at the
graduation ceremony? 16 Surely your parents will help you to get the
food ready, .................. ?
17 Look at the time. We ought to go now to get
6 How on earth will you get there? The buses
the last bus, .................. ?
have all been on strike for a week.
18 She needn't pay for the whole course in
advance, .................. ?
7 'I didn't think much of that film, did you?'
'Yes, I thought it was terrible.' 19 'Have you seen my new puppy? He's worth
£250.' 'He's lovely. He's a pedigree, then,
8 Let's give the evening class a miss tonight .................. ?'
and stay in, don't we? 20 Don't forget to bring me some of your
fantastic carrot cake, .................. ?
9 'I'm going to have to cancel this evening. I'm
still at work.' 'Oh, things are still really
hectic, are they?'

10 Can you let me know what time does the

train from Croydon arrive?

11 Could you possibly let us know if or not the

tree roots will affect the foundations?

DiagnostiC test 7 hey ~ page

16
Diagnostic test 8
Passives, causatives and get
Rewrite these sentences beginning with the Choose the correct or best sentence (a or b) in
word(s) in bold. You will need to use passive or each pair.
causative forms.
13 a Twenty per cent of the world's oil is owned
Example by Saudi Arabia.
My parents let me stay up late yesterday. b Twenty per cent of the world's oil gets
I .. HtM. altr!w.e4..W .sm,.
Uf.'. ~y.e?w.M.y. . ........ . owned by Saudi Arabia.
14 a Some people think The Tempest is
The management have offered the workers a
pCly rise. Shakespeare's final play.
A pay rise .................................................. . b The Tempest is thought to be
Shakespeare's final play.
2 The mechanics are overhauling the entire
15 a A famous actress is resembled by my
fleet.
sister.
The entire fleet .......................................... .
b My sister resembles a famous actress.
3 They made the contestants dress in ridiculous
outfits. 16 a That political party wants to increase its
The contestants ......................................... . membership.
b Membership wants to be increased by that
4 The organisers should have warned us in political party.
advance.
17 a The Golden Gate Bridge is a marvel of
We ............................................................. .
American technology. It was designed by
5 Having taken advice, the committee decided Joseph B Strauss in the 1930s.
not to proceed. b The Golden Gate Bridge is a marvel of
Advice ........................................................ . American technology. In the 1930s Joseph
6 It was my father's final wish that they would B Strauss designed it.
bury him at sea. 18 a The interviewers will interview the
To ............................................................... . candidates in alphabetical order.
7 We regret the fact that the landlord didn't b The candidates will be interviewed in
inform us of his decision. alphabetical order.
We regret not ............................................ . 19 a The post has arrived at last.
8 The garage services my car every six months. b The post has been arrived at last.
I ................................................................. . 20 a This programme was recorded in front of a
9 The carriers will receive instruct.ions to return live audience.
the goods to your clients by Friday. b We recorded this programme in front of a
We will have ............................................... . live audience.
10 They are going to repair Susy's car free of
charge!
Susy's getting ............................................ .
11 I want you to repair that computer as soon as
you possibly can.
Get ............................................................. .
12 I can see that nobody's cleaned the
bathroom for weeks!
The bathroom ............................................ .

Diagnostic test 8 key .... page .~4::>

17
 Diagnostic test 9
Reported speech
Ten of these sentences contain mistakes. Tick Rewrite each quote in indirect speech.
(11') the two correct sentences, then find and
Example
correct the mistakes.
I've lost a contact lens so I can't see a thing!
Example Gary explained that .....M. W.I,c>.t: 1¥.I<Q/1I;I!.I;t....
I've already~ you a hundred times that .. kM.f~ .1.r#..t;lJ.tddn/t. .r~.(V.~.•........................
you're too late! ..... w.td.(Qr.,.f.4i4..wl ....... .
13 'I will remember 1st March 2000 as a great
The surgeon reassured Mr Ellis. 'The day for the nation!'
operation has been a resounding success,' The President announced .......................... .
said she .............................. .
2 He told that his mobile phone had been out 14 'Publication may be delayed by one week.'
of action all day .............................. . The editor told us ...................................... .
3 Mary was fed up about her inability to
complete the course. She told the lecturer I 15 'You must lose at least 20 kilos.'
felt I couldn't complete it. The doctor told me .................................... .

4 The manager told us last Friday evening that 16 'Intelligent life does not exist in our universe.'
he wanted us in on time tomorrow morning Many astronomers believe ......................... .
to start the Saturday sale.
17 'The Ming Dynasty lasted for almost 300
5 Susie phoned her husband and told him that years.'
she would be gone when he got home. The historian explained .............................. .

6 Janice hates the idea of growing old. She 18 'When do you want the sofa to be delivered?'
said yesterday that she wished she had still The shopkeeper asked my wife .................. .
been young .............................. .
7 The negotiator said he's working on the 19 'Isn't that stupid behaviour for a cyclist?'
details of a tentative settlement. The pedestrian complained ......................... .

8 Laura said if anybody had reported a missing 20 'You really must do at least four hours'
person to the police yet. ............................. . training a day.'
9 The nurse asked when exactly had started The trainer urged his team ........................ .
the pain .............................. .
10 We asked the travel agent if or not there was
a swimming pool at the villa.

11 Several members of the Royal Family urged

Edward VIII don't abdicate.

12 Even under great pressure O'Brien denied to

have taken part in the attack.

Diagnostic test 9 k e y ; . _
18
Diagnostic test 10
Conditionals
Twelve of these conditional sentences contain a 11 If you were to listen more carefully, you might
mistake, or may be considered incorrect by understand a little more.
most English speakers. Tick (11") the correct
sentences, then find and correct the mistakes. 12 If I was you, I should try to see a consultant
(Be careful! Incorrect punctuation counts as a as soon as possible.
mistake.)
Example 13 If he would have waited a bit longer, we
I would have called you if I ~ you were at would have given him the result.
home .
.................. .W.W#I.f'k ................................... .
14 The King of Belgium didn't attend the royal
It may be possible, if both parties desire it, to wedding. If he hadn't been there, he would
reduce the time scale. have witnessed a marvellous spectacle.

2 If the bill is passed by both parliamentary 15 If the company didn't want to continue
houses then it becomes law. sponsoring us in the future; they wouldn't
renew our contract last week, would they?
3 Shall we start the decorating at the weekend
if we had no other plans? 16 If the authority had built new homes as
planned, we would have fewer homeless
people., on our streets today.
4 If you spill even something as innocuous as
water on this fabric, it stains.
17 Shh! I'd be grateful unless you made
comments during the concert.
5 When you press the 'record' button, the
green light comes on.
18 Always take a basic medicine kit on holiday in
case you fall ill.
6 If the museum will charge for entry, a lot of
people won't be able to use it.
19 Even they go down with flu after they've had
the vaccination, it's likely to be less serious.
7 Are you unhappy with any of our operatives,
we will replace them immediately.
20 Those concerned by the long-term effects of
global warming believe that the damage has
8 If you're taking some flowers to Julie, I'll take
been done, whether we take remedial steps
some fruit.
now.

9 If the form has been correctly completed, the

transfer will take only two days.

10 The organisers would respond positively to

proposals if they are submitted by 10th June.

19
 Diagnostic test 1 1
The subjunctive and 'unreal' uses of past forms
Five of these sentences contain grammatical 13 She wishes she had a home of her own.
mistakes. Tick (toI) the correct sentences, then a She likes living in her own place.
find and correct the mistakes. b She would like to live in her own place.
Example 14 If only I could wear such bright clothes.
If only we-et\'ft see the situation through his a Bright clothes don't suit me.
eyes . .........~t44. ...... . b I'm the only one who can wear bright
clothes.
It is high time the country were told of the
Prime Minister's intentions ......................... . Complete each sentence so that it means the
2 I wish I would have green eyes like Elizabeth same as the preceding sentence(s).
Taylor......................... . Example
3 The regulations require that each defendant I regret leaOihe children with her.
in turn submit a sworn statement to the I wish ... !... ....... t?ift..~.~e!J(.w#h-:~..... .
court ......................... .
15 You ought to start doing your homework.
4 If you only paid more attention! It's high time you ....................................... .
16 Would you have gone if you had been
5 It's high time we didn't act so impulsively. invited?
Supposing you ............................................ .
6 If only the car would have been going more 17 I don't want you to bring that smelly dog into
slowly! ........................ . this house.
7 Long lives the President! ....................... .. I'd rather you ............................................. .
8 If only that I had known ......................... . 18 I prefer wearing natural fabrics.
I'd sooner .................................................. .
Circle the best explanation (a or b). 19 He sounds quite convincing. Perhaps he
Example knows what he is talking about.
I'd sooner you paid me cash. He sounds as though ................................. .
a I expect you to pay me soon. 20 You are always talking with your mouth full. I·
@ I prefer to be paid in cash. want you to stop doing it.
I wish you ................................................... .
9 If only I was as tall as my brother.
a I used to be as tall as my brother.
b I am shorter than my brother.
10 Get a move on! It's high time we left for the
airport.
a We are late.
b We have just left.
11 Suppose we win the competition.
a I think we have a chance of winning.
b Winning is extremely unlikely.
12 He bosses everyone around as if he owned
the place.
a He owns the place.
b He doesn't own the place.

Diagnostic test 11 key .. P~~:~4;~;

20
Diagnostic test 12
-ing forms and infinitives
Write suitable forms of the word(s) in 16 We went on ............................ even after the
brackets, putting verbs into an -ing form (e.g. music had stopped. (dance)
returning) or infinitive form (e.g. to return). You 17 We regret ...................... , ..... the cancellation
may need to change or add words. of today's service due to ill health.
Example (announce)
I'm looking forward to ....~.r.¢..f#':~... with 18 As the plane flew over we saw the workers
good news. (she/return) ............................ the new opera house.
(build)
I'm afraid you'll have to move your car, sir.
There is ............................ here. (not/park)
Five of these sentences contain mistakes. TIck
2 For evil ............................ it is only (V') the correct sentences, then find and
necessary that the good do nothing. correct the mistakes.
(succeed)
Example
3 Sylvia rang her doctor ............................ an We agreed R'l88tiRg outside the cinema at nine.
appointment. (make) ..... Ili.~ ......................... ·.................... ......... .
4 The thing I most enjoy about my job is
............................ people with problems. 19 The dispensing medical aid is the main
(help) activity of the Red Cross.

5 Pressure from the board led to

20 Everyone in the office was fed up with Brian's
............................ the company. (he/leave)
moaning.
6 The colonel ordered a day's leave in order
............................ the morale of the troops.
(boost) 21 The new manager is sure to looking into ways
to cut costs.
7 We got there only ............................ that the
concert had been cancelled. (find)
22 He got caught when the boss found making
8 You're welcome ............................ yourself personal f:Jhone calls.
to anything from the fridge. (help)
9 It's strange that she didn't mention 23 The airline allowed us taking the wheelchair
............................ him at the party. (meet) on board.
10 I really can't risk ............................ these
awful programmes. (the children/see) 24 We were furious when the judge ordered to
11 Don't disturb me, I've got a report pay compensation.
............................ by lunchtime. (write)
12 I can't stand ............................ animals in 25 Despite budget constraints the BBC continues
pain. (see) to make innovative programmes.
13 I must remember ............................ my
alarm clock tonight. (set)
14 Dean's so sorry; he really didn't mean
............................ you. (hurt)
15 You won't find any spare parts; they stopped
............................ them ages ago. (make)

21
 Diagnostic test 13
Participle and infinitive phrases
Underline the correct alternative in italics. 11 If you service it regularly, the engine should
last for 200,000 kilometres.
Example
............................. regularly, the engine
Not to have/Not having an invitation, I couldn't
should last for 200,000 kilometres. (1 word)
get into the party.
12 Hilary left the team when she had completed
He didn't own/Not owning a watch, Peter was her project.
often late. Her project ............................. Hilary left the
2 Writing in the 'Evening Standard', an team. (1 word)
article/author complained about the lack of 13 My proudest possession is this watch. My
disabled facilities on the underground. grandfather left it to me.
3 Objects bought/buying in junk shops can The watch ............................. to me by my
often turn out to be quite valuable. grandfather is my proudest possession.
(1 word)
4 Neil Armstrong was the first man walking/to
walk on the moon. 14 John felt too ashamed to carry on because
he hadn't kept his word.
5 'It's only me!' she said, opening/she opened ............................. his word, John felt too
the door. ashamed to carryon. (3 words)
6 Their long-term plan was the company/for the 15 The children always had plenty to do because
company to expand into Asia. they lived near the sports centre .
7 Hilary got to the station only finding/to find ............................. near the sports centre,
that the train had already left. the children always had plenty to do.
(1 word)
8 Generally to speak/speaking, our best
business comes via our website. 16 As he had already passed his medical, Dean
was able to start immediately.
Complete each sentence using the number ................... .......... his medical, Dean was
of words indicated in brackets, so that the able to start immediately. (2 words)
sentence means the same as the one(s) 17 Their worst mistake was that they did not
before it. apply sooner.
Examples Their worst mistake was ............................ .
Sally's only regret was that she hadn't had any sooner. (4 words)
children. 18 We often find that the larger sizes are the
.NP.t.~..~ .. any children was Sally's only first ones which we sell.
regret. (3 words) We often find the larger sizes are the first
Brian moved to Manchester so that he could be ............................. (2 words)
closer to his ailing parents.
Brian moved to Manchester ...... .t;!!.p.~............. . 19 David bought a laptop so that he could
closer to his ailing parents. (2 words) access his e-mails when he was travelling.
David bought a laptop ............................. his
9 They couldn't buy the house owing to the fact e-mails when he was travelling. (2 words)
that the bank had refused their loan
application. 20 My honest opinion is that I really didn't enjoy
Their loan application ............................. , it.
they weren't able to buy the house. (3 words) I really didn't enjoy it, ............................ .
honest. (2 words)
10 He is not rich so he won't be able to afford it.
............................. rich, he won't be able to
afford it. (2 words)
Diagnostic test .1!
22
Diagnostic test 14
Multi-word verbs
Rewrite these sentences replacing the Eight of the following sentences contain
underlined words with the words in brackets. grammatical mistakes or an inappropriate verb
Make any necessary changes to word order. or multi-word verb. lick (.....) the correct
sentences and correct the others.
Example
She repaid the debt punctually. (on time/paid/ Examples
They're a company with which we've been
~.~~~j~~#.b.1M1Y. ilK!. ~•........................... dealing for many years ...... v.: ........................... .
Her Majesty t"'Fl'leEi "'13 at the ceremony in the
The whole story was invented by Suzy's dazzling Imperial State Coach .
brother. (by/him/made/was/up) ......... M.r.~ ............. .

2 Maintain the good work. (up/ittkeep) 9 That division was taken by head office over.

3 Make sure you carefully follow the guidelines. 10 The very first breakout of the disease was
(strictly/to/stick) reported in Namibia .................................... .
11 Steve was left by his ex-girlfriend out from
her wedding invitation list.
4 This tie doesn't match that shirt.. ... (it/with/go)

5 We met my wife's cousin by chance at the 12 It is a condition of receiving this Internet

museum. (into/him/ran) account that you do not give away your
confidential PIN number to any third party.

6 These are the beliefs our movement upholds.

13 Could you activate the kettle, darling? I'm
(stands/which/for/our movement)
dying for a cup of tea.

7 The company won't tolerate this kind of

14 He fell down the floor and hurt himself.
behaviour. (with/it/put/up)

8 I revealed the secret to Elizabeth. 15 Come on! We're going to be late!

(itlher/i n/let/on)
16 The plane took off the ground at incredible
speed .................................... .
17 The government brought recently in some
legislation to deal with the problem.

18 There are few people for whom he cares so

deeply.................................... .
19 They took Clive up on his invitation.

20 We look forward eagerly to your wedding.

23
 Diagnostic test 15
Dependent prepositions
Thirteen of these sentences contain mistakes. 15 Lack of nutrients caused serious damage to
Tick (tI) the correct sentences, then find and growing ........................... .
correct the mistakes. 16 Wendy's sarcastic comments made me
Example curious about her motives ........................... .
The primary purpose of the police is to protect 17 We were absolutely furious by their
people ~ criminals . ..... .Jr.fif1k ........... . outrageous prices ........................... .
The supervisor said I shouldn't have shouted 18 I don't mind driving but I'm really scared by
at the client so I had to apologise to. flying ........................... .
19 I'd prefer somewhere else; I'm not too keen
2 I never really know whether I should insist on on Thai food ........................... .
sit at the top table or not ........................... . 20 Apparently Donna's angry with her boss; he's
3 The waiter was quite amazed at our eating given her the late shift yet again.
everything so quickly ........................... .
4 All my friends agree to the government's new
policy on third world debt ........................... .
5 Sylvia was astonished at that her boyfriend
had behaved so atrociously.

6 You know I'm really not that interested in if

he's coming with us or not ........................... .
7 David's quarrelled his wife over selling the
house ........................... .
8 Please make an effort. The children are really
depending on you their party costumes.

9 Can you tell us if the minister has stopped

the by-pass from going ahead?

10 I blame my parents for my bad habits.

11 The old persons' home will provide Sam for a

room ........................... .
12 Don't worry, the guide's going to fully explain
me all the details ........................... .
13 He succeeded in winning the first round but
I'm afraid he didn't have any success in
beating his second opponent.

14 The auditors initially issued a demand for full

repayment but then changed their minds and
simply demanded for a token contribution.

Diagnostic test 15 key "'pag~ ~~~~

24
DiagnostiC test 16
Modal verbs (1): can, could, may, might, be able to
Fifteen of the sentences below contain 12 Jane's late. She can be stuck in a traffic jam.
mistakes with modal verbs. Tick (v) the correct
sentences, then find and correct the mistakes. 13 A new car! What can she be thinking of!
Examples
We took an exam yesterday and I couldn't 14 I heard your sales results were excellent.
answer any of the questions. May you get a bonus this year?
.........v....................... .
I eet:lIEi Be promoted last year but I preferred to
stay on the shop floor ... ..~rM4. fuw.p".b.~..... 15 Don't get too anxious; there may well be a
simple explanation for it.
When I finish the course next year I can
speak perfect French .............. :,................... .. 16 Don't bother replying as I may have changed
2 You'll have to call a cab. I can't have been address by the time you read this.
able to drive since I broke my arm last June.
17 Steve couldn't steal it. I'm sure he was at
3 This computer is so simple that it is able to home al\ week ................... ~ .............. .
be operated by anyone. 18 Elizabeth can get better results if she paid
more attention to her homework.
4 The job interview was a disaster; I could only
answer half the questions! 19 1'1\ be able to meet you after the lesson.

5 When she was riding in the woods last week, 20 I'm not sure about tomorrow night. I may be
Helen fell off her horse but luckily she could on call. ................................ ..
get back on and ride home.
21 Excuse me. Am I able to use your phone?

6 It's really annoying. Surely you knew they

didn't accept traveller's cheques at that 22 Well, don't worry. You could always try again
hotel. You could warn me before I left! tomorrow.................................. .
23 I could leave work early yesterday - my boss
7 These days she is rather slow but as a child gave me permission ................................. ..
she could run like the wind. 24 You might get me some bin liners if it's not
too much trouble ................................. ..
8 What an excellent choice of restaurant. I 25 People might not smoke on British Airways
can't have chosen better if I'd made the flights; it's forbidden ................................. ..
reservation myself! ................................ ..
9 There can be life on Saturn.

10 My father could be a star in the 1980s, it's a

pity that he never really tried.

11 Watching TV soaps can become very

addictive ................................. ..

Diagnostic test 16 key ~ page3~~

25
 Diagnostic test 17
Modal verbs (2): must, should, ought to, have to, need to
Underline the best choice of word(s) in italics 15 Our advice is that even people as young as
in each of these sentences. twenty-five should/must consider a personal
pension.
Example
As they get older, teenagers should/had better 16 You won't have to/had better not tell Shirley
be treated more like adults.- what you saw - it will only upset her and
she'll blame you.
To must/Having to listen to hip-hop music all
17 The ground's soaking outside - it must
evening is my idea of torture!
raining/be raining quite heavily.
2 The landlord ought t%ught have taken his
18 If you bring your receipt, there
responsibilities more seriously.
shouldn't/mustn't be any difficulty with a
3 This company is awful to work for. We refund.
must/have to account for every minute of the
19 Lewis must have/should have been training
day.
very hard to develop muscles like that!
4 Do you know if we must/have to have visas
20 I walked into the showroom and saw the car,
for the Caribbean?
and I knew I had to have/must have had it.
5 The newspaper shouldn't have/mustn't have
printed the rumour without concrete
evidence.
6 What a state my shoes are in! They
need/must repairing.
7 We have to/are supposed to put our bags in
the lockers, but most people take them into
the gym.
8 We couldn't go/mustn't have gone into the
disco because we were too young.
9 Polite notice: children do not have to/are not
allowed to play on the grass.
10 This offer is not open to current employees.
Participants must not have/need not have
been employed by the company in the last
four years.
11 We needn 't/needn 't to have booked the
tickets in advance; there were plenty left.
12 With our new range of hair products, you
mustn't/don't have to spend hours caring for
your hair.
13 There wasn't anyone on the nightclub door so
we didn't need to show/needn't have shown
proof of our age.
14 As we're getting a lodger, we'd better/better
to have some more keys cut.

Diagnostic test 17.key.)IIi..·~

26
Diagnostic test 18
Modal verbs (3): will, would, shall
Complete the sentences with will, '/I, won't, Circle the correct meaning or interpretation (a
would, wouldn't or shall and the correct form or b) for each sentence,
of the words in brackets.
Example
Example It would be so nice to live by the sea.
The new play on Broadway is really good, but I a The speaker lives by the sea.
don't like Sean Penn in it. Kevin Bacon (§) The speaker doesn't live by the sea.
.......... w.o.«Id.b.e.-.......... (be) much better.
13 If anyone rings in the next few minutes, I'll be
We had to hurry to get him to the hospital. in the storeroom.
We knew it ................................... (be) too a I'm in the storeroom now.
late otherwise. b I'm going to the storeroom.
2 'I wonder where Dad is.' 'He- 14 Ralph isn't here right now, I'm afraid. He'll be
................................... (drive) to the airport, at the office .
I should think.' a He is at the office now.
3 'Oh dear. The lecture starts at nine o'clock. b He's on his way to the office.
I'm later 'Don't worry. This lecturer's always 15 I've tried it again and again but the computer
late. He ................................... (not/start) just won't accept my disc. I don't understand
yet.' it. .
4 At this point in the season, the parents a I'm annoyed with the computer.
................................... (eat) their young b I am not concerned about the computer.
rather than allow a predator to attack them. 16 It's a-relief that Annie's changed class. She
5 The doctor ................................... (act) as a would argue with everything I said.
witness to your signature. She doesn't mind a I didn't mind the arguments.
doing that sort of thing. b The arguments annoyed me.

6 The PA ................................... (not/book) my 17 The secretary shall minute the proceedings of

flights. She says it isn't in her job description. each meeting.
a The secretary is offering to do it.
7 Dad ................................... (always/help) us b The secretary is instructed to do it.
out financially when we were at university,
however difficult it was for him. 18 'It looks as though the fuel crisis is over.'
'I wouldn't be too sure.'
8 The police interrogated the terrorist for more a The second speaker agrees.
than four hours, but she b The second speaker doesn't agree .
...................... ............. (not/reveal) the
names of her co-conspirators. 19 It would be so nice to have a little cottage in
the country.
9 You look tired ................................... . a The speaker doesn't have a cottage.
(I/make) supper this evening? b The speaker has a cottage.
10 What ................................... (we/do) with 20 I would have liked to meet the professor
Tom if he doesn't get into university? while he was here.
11 ................................... (you/be) so kind as to a The speaker met the professor.
help me across the road, young man? b The speaker didn't meet the professor.
12 We ................................... (like) everyone in
this room to feel comfortable with the
proposal.

Diagnostic test 18 /{e~ff~II ••

27
 Diagnostic test 19
Auxiliaries, have (got), do
Ten of these sentences contain mistakes or 13 Members can have got two cards each.
errors of style. Tick (V") the correct sentences,
then find and correct the mistakes. Note that 14 I see the Red Sox have gotten themselves a
some sentences may be correct in spoken new striker this season .......................... .
English, not in written English.
15 We used to have got a house in the country
Example before Jack lost his job ............. , ............ .
We'vw't been able to access the website since
1A.le-,·_·~ .. >t
. ...... r.r.\
yester day evening •.~ ..•••

The builders were certainly working hard;

they were plastering the kitchen, were
painting the staircase and were tiling the
bathroom .......................... .
2 Kevin's exhausted; its been a hectic day.

3 'The battery's flat. You didn't turn the lights

off, did you?' 'Yes, I did turn them off, I
remember it distinctly.' ......................... .
4 'Miranda's over the moon. She's always
wanted to have got a sports car.'

5 They won't have anyone smoking in their

house .......................... .
6 He's watching television when she arrived at
the flat .......................... .
7 'Why didn't you ask Graham about the
reorganisation plan?' 'What was the point?
He wouldn't've known anything about it.'

8 Will you have got a good weekly income from

your pension when you retire?

9 She's such a naughty child; she could really

do some strict discipline! ........... , ........ , .... .
10 Do help yourself to a drink .......................... .
11 A shower was had by John before he came to
work .......................... .
12 'Excuse me. Is there a post office near here?'
'Sorry, I haven't a clue. I'm a stranger here
myself.' ......................... .

28
Diagnostic test 20
Confusing verbs
Replace the expressions in italics in these 15 Anatoly speaks/talks English with a strong
sentences using a suitable form of make or do. accent.
Example 16 The Prime Minister spoke/talked at the
I like listening to the radio while washing the international conference in Geneva.
dO'l!Jj. ........... :..... .
dishes . ......... 17 She's such a chatterbox, we were up half the
night speaking/talking!
Sammy earns a lot more than I did at his
age ................................ . 18 What do you think of that plan to rise/raise
the 'Titanic' from the seabed?
2 That old curtain fabric has become a
marvellous ball gown ................................ . 19 I'm afraid a rather serious problem has
raised/arisen.
3 You can go out after you have ~ompleted your
homework ................................ . 20 Tax rates always seem to be rising/raising
these days.
4 What an awful outfit; you'd think she had
sewn it herself! ............................... . 21 They robbed/stole my purse in broad
daylight!
5 We carry out the staff appraisals once every
six months ................................ . 22 I regret to inform you that the bank will be
unable to lend/borrow the sum you have
6 She is undertaking research into brand name
requested.
recognition ................................ .
23 Graham and Lucy are coming here for the
7 Make sure you brush your teeth before you
weekefld and I think they are bringing/taking
go to bed ................................ .
the children with them.
8 Stop dithering. You must come up with a
24 Sorry I'm home so late, I took/brought the
decision now. '" ............................ .
car to work today and I got stuck in a traffic
jam.
Underline the best form in italics in each of
these sentences. 25 Would you mind bringing/fetching the
children from school next Tuesday?
Example
Would you mind if I did/made a suggestion
about this?

9 Sue's had/taken a real dislike to her new

supervisor.
10 It's high time the committee had/took action
over this flagrant abuse.
11 Grace has gone/been on holiday in Jamaica
and she's come back with a lovely tan.
12 I'm a little faint. Could Iliel/ay down on the
sofa for a minute?
13 The men have just lainl/aid a brand new
carpet in the bedroom.
14 I was so tired yesterday that I lay/lied in bed
for most of the day.

Diagnostic test 20 key. page 34'8

29
 Diagnostic test 2 1
Adjectives
Fifteen of these sentences have mistakes. 12 We will be supplying an antidote to all those
These may be an incorrect word, a spelling infected by the virus.
mistake or an error in word order. lick (V') the
five correct sentences, then underline the 13 To avoid theft please make use of the
mistakes in the others and write the provided security boxes.
corrections.
Examples 14 The report into the rail crash was rather
I'm afraid the only seat available is on the early worried.
morning flight .
......................... .rI............................................. .
Our 5Ef~aEl l'Iatisl'lal is one of the best this 15 I always seem to play for the lost team!
country has ever produced .
• .. _I
... .• ~f'I#k fif
uiMi
................................................. . 16 Interest in Latino music is no longer confined
to speaking Spanish audiences.
London features numerous histories sites
such as Westminster Abbey.
17 We've inherited a dining mahogany table
from my great aunt.
2 I'm writing a report on the political attitudes
of the young's.
18 They're selling that Victorian wonderful house
on the corner.
3 The health care needs of the old are a major
problem for many western countries.
19 The players will be wearing blue and red
striped shirts for today's match.
4 We've won first prize? What amazing!
20 The interview panel felt the applicant was
5 A plant being built outside the town is well-informed and honest, capable.
chemical.

6 Try not to disturb the asleep children.

7 They are doing experiments on alive animals.

8 Please don't tell me negative anything.

9 I'm afraid that's the only answer possible.

10 Our latest release is a film suitable for all

ages.

11 The involved people will be caught and

severely punished.

Diagnostic test~·'1~;J.!!'Ili~1m
30
DiagnostiC test 22
Comparison
Nine of these sentences contain mistakes. Tick 14 Children these days seem to get ruder and
(v) the correct sentences, then find and ruder and ruder............... ..
correct the mistakes. 15 I'm angrier than upset ............... ..
Example
Which of these three houses is the @HI3@F1si','@sH Complete each sentence so that it means
....... W.ft.~X.~~ ..... . exactly the same as the preceding one. You
must include the word(s) in brackets,
Come on, you've got to admit she's much
Example
slimer than you! .............. ,.
I predicted the weather would be very hot and I
2 She's always saying she's better looking was right, (just as)
than I. .............. .. The weather .... WMjf1ft,M,~r.M.l.p.r.~, ..
3 Our cat Whiskers has been much more lively
16 The Hyperlink modem is much faster than all
since we added vitamin supplements to her
the others in our catalogue. (by far)
diet. .............. ..
Of all the modems ...................................... ..
4 We felt the male character was realer than
17 Jan and Lucy are equally good at tennis. (no).
the female, who seemed very artificial.
Jan is ..................................... Lucy at tennis
18 Getting a made-to-measure suit was much
5 'Which do you prefer, darling, the brown or
cheaper than I expected. (not nearly)
the green?'
Getting a made-to-measure suit .................. ..
'Oh, the green is definitely the best.'
19 I couldn't open the lock because it was very
6 I'm most proudest of this one. I won it cold. (that)
against really stiff competition ............... .. It ........................................... open the lock,
7 The divorce has made him the most unhappy 20 He gets increasingly angry as he becomes
man in the street, don't you think? more frustrated. (angrier)
The more ........................................ he gets.
8 That special diet has worked miracles. He's
much less fat than he used to be ............... ..
9 The eldest piece in the museum is this
Egyptian amulet from the Third Dynasty.

10 Hasn't their eldest son just landed some sort

of job in Seattle? .............. ..
11 Our new social security scheme is lots more
generous than the previous Government's.

12 Windsor Castle is the largest occupied castle

of Britain ............... ..
13 Things are about as worse as they can get.

DiagnostiC test 22 key.-li._ 31

 Diagnostic test 23
Cradable and ungradable adjectives
Five of these sentences contain mistakes with Choose the most appropriate adverb a, b or c,
the adverbs and adjectives. Tick (v) the to fill each gap.
correct sentences and underline the mistakes.
13 Jim hates speaking in public; he's .............. .
Examples shy.
Some of these new laptops are hideously a absolutely b completely c painfully
expensive. v 14 The Wimbledon final was ............... exciting.
As usual he bought me something absolutely a absolutely b utterly c terribly
cheap.
15 Your new bracelet's beautiful. It looks
Iceland is colder than Sweden. ............... expensive.
a very b completely c absolut(
2 Casualties during the Crimean War were very
enormous. 16 I think I'd better lie down; I feel ........ .
3 Steve's new girlfriend is very attractive. sick.
a practically b a little bit c virt
4 Clients are advised that Miami tends to be
17 Yes, sir. You're ............... correct. I'll €
more boiling than Los Angeles during the
winter months. a refund.
a quite b very c rather
5 Milan cathedral is slightly huge.
18 Since the accident Clive has been ..... .
6 Thank you. That really was a most delicious paralysed.
meal! a totally b absolutely c very
7 In many areas of Europe the wolf is virtually 19 After a month with no rain the grass is
extinct. ............... dead.
8 My friend told me the film was dead exciting. a slightly b almost c somewha
9 Last night's episode was really gripping. 20 I wasn't expecting much but, surprisinl
play was ............... good.
10 I can't stand that actor; he's absolutely ugly.
a nearly b absolutely c quite
11 The club's very empty for a Saturday night.
12 It's slightly free to get in; less than one Euro,
in fact.

Diagnostic test 23 key ~ pal

32
Diagnostic test 24
Adverbs
Underline the correct form or phrase in italics. Rewrite these sentences, putting the adverb in
brackets in the correct position.
Example
I haven't seen that much of them latellately. Example
She has got a place in the shortlist. (definitely)
You're bound to be promoted; the boss .J.~.I:r.M.~j.Qt /{.{~.~thk.f.IMr:#4t..
thinks very high/highly of you.
2 The elephant trek took us deep/deeply into 14 I thought his performance was good. (pretty)
the rainforest.
3 In our school fifty roughly/roughly fifty 15 The patient's body is now entirely free of
students have mobile phones. symptoms. (almost)

4 As we descended the hill the car began to go

more fast/faster. 16 These days I take my health much more
seriously. (probably)
5 I've had a lot of insomnia recently. I only
slept yesterday/Yesterday I only slept four
hours. 17 She's my worst enemy and I don't like her.
(really)
6 Weekly I get paidl/ get paid weekly, so I can
pay the rent on Saturday.
18 Rejected, Harriet turned to food for comfort.
7 Here lies the tomb/The tomb here lies of Sir (emotionally)
Jasper Willoughby.
8 The train strike won't affect her, she arrives 19 I bumped into your brother at the
usually/usually arrives by taxi. supermarket. (incidentally)
9 Liz isn't our most punctual member of staff,
she is often/often is late for work. 20 I understood everything because the teacher
10 I'm afraid that we still don't/don't still know answered the question. (clearly)
his name.
11 You'll never get your money back because
the company isn't trading any longer/any
longer trading.
12 My parents aren't very sociable, in fact they
go out hardly everlhardly ever go out.
13 I'm sorry that the kids badly behaved/
behaved badly while you were babysitting.

Diagnostic test 24 key ~ page 349

33
 Diagnostic test 25
Nouns and noun phrases
In each sentence, either one or both of the 16 The Council's team of social workers is/are to
forms in italics is correct. Tick (.....) the be commended for their actions.
sentences where both forms are correct. 17 The United Nations is/are sending a special
Underline the correct form in the others. envoy to the conflict zone.
Example 18 I'll take you to the station if you give me
Mumps is/are not too problematic if contracted shout/a shout when you're ready.
in childhood, but can be dangerous in later life.
19 The attack on the Minister was/The people
The chair/chairwoman has just phoned to say attacked the Minister and it was unprovoked
she's been delayed in traffic. and extremely vicious.
2 For really good electric pianos/pianoes, have 20 The first outbreak/breakout of the epidemic
a look in Marston's. was in Zaire in the 1980s.
3 Corn circles are one of the strangest
phenomenons/phenomena of recent times.
4 Parliament consists of 653 MP's/MPs, about
two-thirds of whom belong to the
Government.
5 For this dish, you need to weigh the
ingredients carefully on the kitchen
scale/kitchen scales.
6 The Asthma Helpline will be able to give you
advice/an advice.
7 This checkout is for customers with fewer/less
than five items only.
8 He was hit on the head by stone/a stone and
had to go to hospital.
9 The supermarket is doing a lot of different
fruit/fruits from the Far East at the moment.
10 The most exciting event for most British
viewers in the Sydney Olympics was/were the
rowing finals.
11 The Society's President, against the wishes of
the other founder members, has/have agreed
to the sale.
12 Bread and butter is/are eaten with meals by
most people in the North of England.
13 'The Three Kings' was/were a great success
for George Clooney.
14 Have you thought about doing gymnastics? I
think it's/they're very good for you.
15 Recent events prove the saying that twenty-
four hours is/are a long time in politics.

Diagnostic test 25 key .... p~~~'S:Sf;

34
Diagnostic test 26
Possessives and compound nouns
Eighteen of these sentences contain mistakes. 16 How about all of us going back to the house
Tick (V) the correct sentences, then find the of my brother for some coffee?
mistakes and correct them.
Example 17 Did you manage to get an appointment at the
Have you met the new girlfriend of my stepson doctor's? .......................... .
yet? 18 Oh, for the sake of heaven, can't you get a
.f:#w.~lP.f!./. md: my..f~P.ft/.f..MJ1!:!Jif:Ifr.~yd.? move on? .......................... .
Did you notice that greasy stain on a side of 19 He's doing some research for his dissertation
our sofa? .......................... . on anthropology's history........................... .
2 Dave's company has been awarded a 20 The celebrities acknowledged the crowd's
contract to repair all the buses' engines. cheers who lined the street.

3 People in this street are very proud of their's 21 Astronomers predict an eclipse of the sun. on
manicured front lawns ........................... . April the thirteenth's morning.
4 Isn't she your secretary's brother's boss?
22 Inspector Walters achieved fame with the
famous serial killer's arrest.
5 These gloves look familiar; I think they're
Joe's ........................... .
23 Commentators have been stunned by the
6 The villa we're borrowing belongs to my
scale of the scandal. .......................... .
sister's-in-Iaw's parents ........................... .
24 The processor is the computer's main
7 I adore Lennon's and McCartney's music,
component, wouldn't you agree?
especially the early stuff ........................... .
8 This is Mario, he's a colleague of Professor
25 This term the class will be reading the short
Grigson ........................... .
stories' collection of Graham Greene.
9 I might be able to get you an interview; the
owner's a friend of me ........................... .
26 Everyone's been admiring my expensive
lOis that the new car of Hilary? wife's car. .......................... .
27 If there's one thing I can't stand it's fussy
11 Elizabeth's the youngest daughter of Mr children's clothes ........................... .
Granger. .......................... .
28 There's a beautiful old house for sale at the
12 Jem saw a fantastic article in the local paper local estate's agent's ........................... .
of today........................... .
29 If you want a really unique wedding dress,
13 Galileo was NASA's biggest project. you need to find a good maker of dresses.

14 It's in a great location, only five minutes' 30 Great news - the college is going to give me
walk from the supermarket. a one-year sabbatical. .......................... .

15 Could you give me a dollar's worth of those

bananas, please? .. , ....................... .

35
 Diagnostic test 27
Pronouns
Ten of these sentences contain mistakes. Tick 11 Myself, I'm really not keen on savoury and
(v) the correct sentences, then find and sweet flavours together.
correct the mistakes.
Example 12 After John had been in captivity for three
Someone he called in the middle of the night - I years, he and his wife had a lot to tell
don't know who it was . themselves.
... ·JP'm#!~·~·i!:rt·tM.~.bftM.~frt.···
13 They haven't cleaned the stairwells in our
We always wash up the dog's dishes
flats for over a month now.
separately. This cloth is for our dishes and
that one is for its.
14 The refugees have arrived and everybody
seem quite happy with the living
2 It's not their deckchair. It's our! Don't you
arrangements.
recognise it?

3 E-mails they have become a real nuisance. I In the following sentences, one, two or all
receive about thirty a day now. three of the answers (a-c) may be correct.
Tick (v) all of the correct answers.
4 Those plastic cakes look good enough to eat Example
them! Each interviewee should arrive promptly for
........ interview.
5 The ski instructor didn't actually ski any a his v b his/her v c their v
better than me.
15 It's ........ who asked for the music to be
turned down.
6 Don't tell anyone else about the surprise a them b them ones c they
party. It's between you and I!
16 Come on! Own up! Who's left ........ muddy
boots in the kitchen again!
7 Could all of you people move a few metres to a their b his/her c her
the left, please?
17 We had to take Damon to the vet yesterday.
.. ...... 's got ear mites again.
8 If you'd like a new tennis racket, I can get a It b He c Himself
you a one very cheaply.
18 I'd like to treat ........ to a night at the opera.
a you b yourself c myself
9 It's been an excellent course. I've enjoyed
very much. 19 The hostile tribes went to war with ....... .
a one another b each other
c themselves
10 Some elderly people have difficulty in
remembering themselves what happened only 20 In cases like these, ........ can understand the
a few hours before. motive behind the attack.
a one b you c we

Diagnostic test 27 key .... pace ,"350,;

",,> "'''

36
Diagnostic test 28
Determiners
Complete each sentence with alan, the or - (no Underline the correct determiner or
article). =
determiners in each sentence (- no article).
In some cases two may be correct.
Example
All our towels are made of .. :-:-.. Egyptian cotton. Example
NonelSomel§E1!.!. neighbours rushed to the aid
Ruthless poachers hunt ........ elephant for of the elderly woman.
the valuable ivory of its tusks.
2 Next week I'll be reviewing a stunning new 11 It costs £ 10 alan/- hour to hire the squash
film ......... film stars Michael Douglas and is court.
directed by Curtis Hanson. 12 There's a/thel- good wine bar in the town
3 Yesterday evening's Nature Scope about ........ centre, isn't there?
sun's future worried a large number of 13 AlThe/- Mr Jones came to see you this
viewers. afternoon.
4 Muhammad Ali was voted ........ greatest 14 My parents grew up in the 1950s. In
sports personality of the twentieth century. the/these/those days there was far less
5 It is commonly accepted today that ...... .. freedom than there is now.
brown bread is good for you. 15 This/That/A woman I'd never met before
6 Many research scientists are inspired by came up to me in the bank and asked if she
........ hope of curing diseases by genetic could borrow £ 1O!
engineering. 16 It's freezing! I've never known a winter
7 Fewer people attend ........ church regularly -/this/that cold before.
now than twenty years ago. 17 Isn't there any/some/the way that you can
8 Julianne studied for seven years to become ensure delivery tomorrow?
........ criminal lawyer. 18 Every/All/Each the children in the school have
9 Like many people, I learnt to play ........ piano to take up at least one sport.
when I was a child, but gave it up in my 19 We have asked our retail outlets to return
teens. both/both of/some the new models for further
lOWe recommend that children and teenagers inspection.
are inoculated against ........ meningitis. 20 Much/A lottA few depends on the final
outcome of the negotiations.

Diagnostic test 28 key ~ page 35 f\

37
 Diagnostic test 29
Prepositions
Tick (v) the correct answer. 11 Well, ..... my opinion, our neighbours could
be a lot noisier and more disruptive than they
Example
actually are.
The animal spun round suddenly and hissed
a from b according to c in
violently ........ me.
a to b by c at v 12 Despite ..... no rain for weeks, the garden
appears to be flourishing.
We used to be able to hear the sonic boom a have b that we have had c having
of Concorde as it flew ..... the house.
a above b over c on top of
Six of these sentences contain mistakes with
2 Is the rank of sergeant ..... the rank of prepositions in italics. Tick (v) the correct
corporal in the British army? sentences, then find and correct the mistakes.
a underneath b behind c below
Example
3 The Grand Bazaar ..... Istanbul is the largest The house was undamaged in the floods, except
covered market in the world. the carpets . ....... {!(~~fo.r. .............................. .
a at b in c by
4 The Council is building a new office ......... . 13 We had to put up with her moaning for the
the car park of the Multiplex cinema. whole journey up to Glasgow! ...................... .
a at b behind c after 14 Harriet advanced to her position in the
5 The zookeeper was amazing - he calmly company by means some strategic
walked ..... the lion and took the bag out of friendships .................................................. .
its mouth. 15 The post office is behind just the petrol
a near b up to c towards station. You can't miss it .............................. .
6 Your appointment with the consultant is at 16 Why don't you go towards that police officer
6.30 ..... the evening of the 11th. and ask him the way? .................................. .
a in b at c on 17 The divorce became much more expensive
7 The new soap opera on BBC2 is starting ..... and messier because of that solicitors became
tomorrow. involved . ...................................................... .
a at b - c on 18 From what they said on the weather forecast
8 The walking tour will be leaving promptly ..... yesterday, we're in for a good weekend.
time in order to cover the itinerary.
a on b in c at 19 Apart from to dismantle the lighting, the band
9 Louis was unable to name one person ..... all took only fifteen minutes to pack up.
his acquaintances that he could truly call a
friend. 20 I've been offered the job in Helsinki for that I
a between b under c among applied . ....................................................... .
10 The hotel's bedding is made only ..... the
finest cottons and linens.
a of b in c with

Diagnostic test 29 keg .... pag~ .~.;;

38
Diagnostic test 30
Word order and verb patterns
For each sentence below, you are given three The words in brackets are in the wrong order.
possible ways of completing it. Only two are Rewrite them in the correct order.
correct. Tick (V') the correct ones.
Example
Example When we won the lottery last year,
Although the girl was clearly in her teens, she [new/we/our/house/parents/boughtlaJ.
appeared ... ......... ~ bo'"!Jkt. 0,1M'. par.eHtr.a-. M.W:IMUfe-•. .......
a the child's mother.
b to be the child's mother. V' 9 In the play, [the/Princess/Duke/really/the/
c fond of the child. V' loves], but unfortunately his love isn't
reciprocated ............................................... ..
During an interview the Minister told ... 10 [quote/you/Could/provide/a/formaIJ? If you put
a the nation that she would beJesigning. it in writing, we'll accept it .......................... ..
b to the nation that she would be resigning.
c the interviewer a lie about his resignation. 11 [secret/kept/Duncan/to/her/Katharine/
marriage/aJ for several months before she
2 Passengers stumbled and luggage flew from dared to tell her parents ............................... .
the racks as the driver suddenly ...
a stopped. b stopped the train. 12 [Bettina/yacht/named/John/theJ after his wife,
c stopped to the train. who had recently passed away.
3 The low turnout of townspeople at the
meeting made the new councillor ... 13 The arrival of the Shakespearean actor
a to get angry. b angry. [amountlcompany/of/the/brought/certain/
c chairman of the committee. ciass/al ....................................................... .
4 Surely you don't always want to remain ... 14 The Millers are just leaving. [will/show/
a a shop worker? b to be a shop worker? motorway/them/the/you/way/to/theJ? You go
c in his shadow? past the slip road, don't you?
5 When Jean-Paul Gaultier arrived on the scene,
he appeared ... 15 The children at the party were delighted
a the natural successor to Westwood. when [rabbit/hat/from/a/the/magician/pulled/
b to be the natural successor to Westwood. hisJ ............................................................. .
c refreshingly new and different. 16 The warden told [that/want/see/visitors/
6 As part of their launch, the new travel prisoner/the/d id n 't/them/the/to J.
company offered ...
a their first customer a free holiday. 17 [machine/me/use/show/can/you/how/to/thisJ?
b a free holiday to their first customer. I'm useless with anything mechanical.
c to their first customer a free holiday.
7 The girl's passion for the man made her ... 18 We have to take on the third applicant;
a sign the confession. [ enough/she/we II-q ual ified/had/experi ence/
b to sign the confession. and/was/she] ............................................... .
c blind to his faults.
19 The new design of the magazine [brighter/is/
8 The never-ending care and devotion of the the/one/previous/much/thanJ.
nurses in the hospital helped ...
a to overcome cancer my father.
20 The play was a total disaster! [left/first
b my father overcome cancer.
act/we/as soon as/over/the/was].
c my father to overcome cancer.

Diagnostic test 30 key .. pag~ ·35'1

39
 Diagnostic test 3 1
Relative clauses
Underline the correct alternative in italics. Each sentence below contains a mistake. Find
the mistakes and correct them.
Example
Do you know anyone which/who can repair Example
cigarette burns on clothes? Orders for ~ we have receive=ent will
be processed immediately................................ .
It's usually children from deprived
backgrounds that/which cause the worst 11 The jackets which this shop makes them are
problems. of excellent quality. ..................................... .
2 Captain Corelli's Mandolin, that/which topped 12 Jack has prepared his favourite dish from
the best-seller lists for weeks on end, was Delia Smith's recipe book, which he is about
never formally publicised. to eat .......................................................... .
3 The Council provides bins in that/which waste 13 Can you get me one of those chocolate bars
paper can be deposited for recycling. have got toffee in the middle?
4 All cows over 30 months who/which may have
been exposed to BSE will be destroyed. 14 The charity event raised over £ 1,000 for St
5 Address the reference 'to who/whom it may Andrew's Hospice which opened last year.
concern', as it's very formal.
6 The town hall clock played a different tune at 15 I'd always wanted to take Graham to the city
twelve every day, which/what amused the where I grew up in. . .................................... .
locals and attracted tourists. 16 Have you invited the residents who living here
on a temporary basis to the meeting?
7 'There's a lucky person in this hall who/whose
lottery ticket has just won them £2,OOO!'
8 'Why don't you tell the police which/what you 17 He presented the visiting ambassador with a
told me yesterday?' genuine Ming vase, that was worth over
$10,000 ..................................................... .
9 The film is set in the period where/when the
divide between rich and poor was much 18 The bank robbery what I told you about is in
greater than it is now. the local newspaper.................................... ','

10 You can put the photo whichever/wherever 19 High taxation is often the main reason which
you think it looks best. governments fall .......................................... .
20 The new buyer identified a dozen new
sources for the material, most of them
proved to be reliable ................................... .

Diagnostic test 31 key ~ page 351

40
Diagnostic test 32
Contrast
Fourteen of these sentences contain a mistake. 11 In spite of he had a full course of driving
Tick (v) the correct sentences, then correct lessons, he failed the test four times.
the mistakes. (Some of the mistakes are in
word order and level of formality.) 12 Despite she was a woman, Marie Curie made
Example a successful career for herself in a male-
We didn't have a lot of success with the garden, dominated world.
despite we worked hard on it .
... we:.di<in/t..~ {¥. kt..¢-fUUMf..witk tW. ...... . 13 Despite having to do it in the dark, we
.. JlYX"~!JtJ .~uglv. w.f.:.wp.rkd. hMd.tHf.t#, ...... . managed to pitch the tent without problems.
I'm Gemini even though my mother is
Capricorn ............................._...................... . 14 Although the fact that the machine was under
guarantee, the company refused to replace it.
2 My partner enjoys adventure holidays,
whereas I prefer to laze on a beach.
15 We had a really horrible flight back - it was
terrifying. The plane was all over the place
3 But they'd travelled round the world, they and people were throwing up everywhere and
had little experience of their own country. screaming. Nonetheless, we got back safely.

4 Although the watch looked just like a Rolex, 16 However a dog may be a good companion for
it had cost only $50 in a market in Hong
the elderly, the need to take it for walks may
Kong ........................................................... .
be a disadvantage.
5 The girl was released from prison, she had
served although only a fraction of her
17 Australian wines have long impressed
sentence ..................................................... . European wine lovers. Australian, by
6 Even although there was a Force 9 gale, the contrast, champagne is a relative newcomer.
ship remained stable.
18 Most people appreciate the damage being
7 Visitors to tropical resorts still stay out in the done to the environment by cars. They won't
sun too long, even they have had plenty of stop using their own vehicles, however.
warning about the dangers of the sun's rays.
19 The new designs are not as innovative as the
8 These exclusive villas are only a five-minute competition. They will certainly be popular as
walk from the busy centre of the resort. They they are realistically priced, still.
are a haven of peace and tranquillity yet.
20 The plumber charged $100 for an hour's
9 Her face, although deathly pale, was as stern work. He did a good job, mind you.
as ever.

10 Ideal the house may appear at first sight, be

sure to have a full structural survey.

Diagnostic test 32 key" page 3$,2'

41
 Diagnostic test 33
Introductory there and it
Complete the sentences with it or there (and a 17 We would appreciate .................... if you
suitable form of be if necessary), wouldn't say anything about this to the
children.
Examples
In the state of Texas alone ... tl:r&r:e-:M.fk. thought 18 Well, Mr Green, .................... nothing wrong
to be more than thirty prisoners on death row. with the heating element so perhaps we'd
She found .... .it. ............ strange that he never better look at the pump.
talked about his childhood. 19 Hello, .................... Azco Market Research
here; I wonder if you'd have a few minutes to
Once upon a time .................... an old
take part in our telephone poll?
woman who lived in a shoe.
20 The ministry didn't expect .................... quite
2 During tomorrow's show .................... an
such a negative reaction from farmers.
interval of fifteen minutes.
3 Luckily, .................... not any difficulty
finding the shop yesterday.
4 .................... a long way to the beach from
here.
5 'Which street is it?' ' .................... the first
one on the left.'
6 .................... seems to be something wrong
with my modem.
7 Strange weather for June; ................... .
freezing today!
8 .................... hardly any fuel left in the car.
9 The army doesn't anticipate ................... .
much opposition from the rebel forces.
10 .................... looks as though our team's
going to win, after all.
11 .................... supposed to be several ticket
machines outside the station.
12 Given the right monetary conditions,
.................... theoretically possible to
achieve zero inflation.
13 From the swirling mist .................... emerged
a mysterious cloaked figure.
14 If the reorganisation goes ahead
.................... sure to be a lot of opposition
from the sales force.
15 I leave .................... to your conscience to
decide whether to report the matter.
16 Frankly, .................... not surprising that
they were expelled.

Diagnostic test 33 key. page3S!l. '~, ' ,

42
Diagnostic test 34
Emphatic structures and inversion
Make the sentences more emphatic by 11 The interactive displays were much more
rewriting them, beginning with the word(s) in interesting. (Much)
brackets.
Example
They are doing something quite unprecedented. 12 The Lord Chancellor was also at the
(W~~ . ceremony (Also)
.. whM:tIwy.M.~dt!mg.h.1-~~.tM1.f.r.~..
The shellfish made Jasmine sick. (It was)
13 The firefighters were unable to enter the
building because the heat was so intense.
(So)
2 Greg lost the office keys. (It)-
- ................................................................... .
14 A parking ticket was stuck to my windscreen.
3 He's approaching the problem from an (Stuck)
entirely new angle. (What)

15 Although they were defeated they managed

4 They've done something unforgivable. (What) to keep smiling. (Defeated)

5 I came by bus because my car has broken 16 A gnarled old oak tree stands beside the
down. (The reason) river bank. (Beside)

6 A second chance is the only thing I want. (All) 17 The midnight movie is after this. (Next)

7 The guy who told me about the new club was 18 The government has hardly ever suffered
Zack. (Zack) such an overwhelming defeat. (Seldom)

8 We have to leave our bags and coats here. 19 As soon as we arrived they announced that
(This) the show was cancelled. (No sooner)

9 They told me the same thing. (That's) 20 Refunds cannot be given under any
circumstances. (Under)

10 He's very unlucky in love! (Lucky)

Diagnostic test 34 key"" page ~52

43
 Diagnostic test 35
Aspects of cohesion
Rewrite the underlined sections of these Eight of the sentences below either contain a
sentences to avoid repetition. mistake or could be expressed more concisely.
Tick (tI) the two correct sentences, then
Example
correct the mistakes.
The dog ~inced a.s its owner kicked the dog
once agaIn ..... ... tt ..... . Example
Nigel coughed nervously and Laura coughed
The American woman stepped off the train nervously too.
onto the crowded platform. The American ... Ni;g.d. .t;().~1mt .f&:~Hf.ty. Mtd. f.Q. dU./.,4#r.tk•..
woman was so striking that a hush fell over
the people waiting to greet their loved ones. 11 The best pizzas are not to be found in big,
city-centre restaurants but they are to be
2 I really don't like these modern paintings. I found in small, backstreet restaurants.
much prefer the paintings over there.
12 The girls all wanted to watch the video of
3 'Would you like some of these jelly beans?' Romeo and juliet. The boys weren't so keen
'No, thanks. I only like the red jelly beans because they didn't want to watch a romantic
and there aren't any left.' ................... . film. They were so enthusiastic because they
knew that Romeo was Leonardo diCaprio!
4 'Have you seen Billy, Martin and Greg
today?' 'Yes. Billy. Martin and Greg were at
the coffee bar this morning.' ................... . 13 'Would you like some white wine?' 'No,
thanks, I prefer red one.' ................... .
5 I'm afraid we didn't complete the obstacle
course as quickly as the other team 14 The people opposite us sniffed at the acrid
completed it .................... . smell of smoke and so we did .................... .

6 'This lecture is really useless. I don't want to 15 'You wanted me to ring you about the
stay any longer.' 'No, I don't want to stay arrangements for the wedding.' 'So did I.'
any longer.' ................... .
7 He asked me to give up my day off to help 16 Grabbing her bag and snatching the money
with the stocktaking, and he said he'd pay from the table, Angela ran through the front.
me extra to give it up ................... .. door and into the waiting taxi. ................... .

8 My boss gave me a totally unexpected pay 17 Mervyn Jones failed to complete the 400
rise. I'd better thank her for giving me the metres because tore a muscle in his leg.
pay rise ................... ..
9 'Do you think that Britain will win the bid to 18 'Aren't they meeting us here?' 'Well, they
host the next World Cup?' 'I certainly hope must, because they weren't at home when I
they don't win it! It'll be chaos!' rang a few minutes ago.' ................... .
19 'Go to the Tate Modern without me. I'm not
10 Ask whether your parents are doing anything that interested in it.' 'Well, you should be!
this weekend, and if they aren't doing It's a great gallery.' ................... .
anything, invite them to our party. 20 The President was unable to put through all
the reforms that he had wanted to put
through .................... .

Diagnostic test 35 key ~ page 353<

44
Diagnostic test 36
Features of discourse
Circle the better option (a or b) for each space 7 a Ever since her childhood spent in an old
(1-7) in the text. Both options are farmhouse in Scotland she had loved it.
grammatically correct; choose the most b It was something she had loved ever since
appropriate in the context. her childhood spent in an old farmhouse in
Scotland.
Jane and Tom had been looking for a new home
to buy for ages and they were excited about
Choose the best word or phrase (a-n) from the
viewing the empty house in Garfield Road.
box below to complete each sentence. Not all
(1) .......... so it was quite easy to find. Walking
the options are needed.
up to the front door they noticed that the garden
was extremely unkempt and full of rubbish. a At first b Furthermore c Nevertheless
(2) .......... Unfortunately the inside of the house d Due to e After that f Consequently
was little better. From the state of...t:he hallway it g The Prince h The Prince of Wales
was clear that nobody had lived there for many i To know the right people.
years. Undaunted, Jane made straight for the j Knowing the right people.
kitchen. (3) .......... It wasn't a pleasant sight. k Cheques should be
(4) .......... Jane decided to see if the reception I It would be nice if your cheque was
rooms were any better and walked back into the m creepy n unnerving
hall. (5) ........... It was empty of furniture but
with growing excitement Jane noticed a large 8 Proof of status must be included with each
boarded-up fireplace. She shouted for Tom to application ........... , we require a signed and
come and look at it. (6) ........... So few houses dated passport-sized photograph, which is
had big fireplaces these days, and there was non-returnable.
nothing she loved more than a house with a
9 Joseph never went to university............ , he
blazing log fire. (7) .......... .
considered himself to be well educated.
a They knew the old church was opposite it. 10 The air traffic controllers have called a strike.
b They knew it was opposite the old church. . ......... , all flights are cancelled until further
2 a There was a burnt-out sofa and an old notice.
fridge which was lying on its side. 11 The tour of the Acropolis will take two hours.
b A burnt-out sofa and an old fridge which .......... you will be free to go shopping.
was lying on its side were there.
12 The Prince of Wales announced his decision
3 a In any house it was the kitchen that she to give up playing polo today........... has
always wanted to see first. sustained a number of injuries in recent
b She always wanted to see the kitchen first years.
in any house.
13 Being in the right place at the right time.
4 a Hidden under a thick layer of dust and ......... These are the ingredients of success in
grease were the kitchen walls and units. our society.
b The kitchen walls and units were hidden
14 Invoices should be paid by cheque .......... .
under a thick layer of grease and dust.
marked 'payee only'.
5 a She stepped into the old dining room,
15 Many critics find the scene in the attic
pushing open a creaking mahogany door.
particularly ......... .
b Pushing open a creaking mahogany door,
she stepped into the old dining room.
6 a This was exactly the kind of thing they had
been hoping to find.
b They had been hoping to find exactly this
kind of thing. Diagnostic test 36 key ~ page 353
4S