KET (Key English Test)

for Schools

KET for Schools is a certificate that shows a pupil can deal with everyday written and spoken English at a basic level.

There are two versions of KET available: KET and KET for Schools. Both follow exactly the same format and the level of the question papers is identical. The only difference is that the content and treatment of topics in KET for Schools have been particularly targeted at the interests and experience of school pupils.

Why KET for Schools?

• KET for Schools is specially tailored to suit the interests of pupils, so it increases their motivation to learn English.
• Because it is based on familiar topics and situations, KET for Schools gives pupils the confidence to use their English.
• Passing KET for Schools inspires enthusiasm in pupils to move on to further qualifications.
• A Cambridge ESOL qualification gives pupils a head start in life. Our qualifications are recognised by colleges, universities, employers and governments around the world.

What will KET for Schools help pupils do?

KET for Schools is at Level A2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) – an internationally recognised framework.

At A2 level, typical users can:

• understand simple questions and instructions
• express simple opinions or needs
• complete forms and write short, simple letters or postcards related to personal information.

Preparation for KET for Schools will give a pupil these kinds of practical language skills.

What is involved in taking the KET for Schools exam?

KET for Schools has three papers:

Reading and Writing: 1 hr 10 min
Candidates need to be able to understand simple written information such as signs, brochures, newspapers and magazines. They will also have to fill gaps in simple sentences and write a short message or note of 25-35 words.

Listening: 30 min
Candidates need to show their ability to understand announcements and other spoken material when spoken reasonably slowly.

Speaking: 8-10 min
Candidates need to demonstrate that they can take part in a conversation by answering and asking simple questions. They take the Speaking test with another candidate or in a group of three.

PET (Preliminary English Test)

for Schools

PET for Schools is a certificate that shows a pupil can deal with everyday written and spoken English at an intermediate level.

There are two versions of PET available: PET and PET for Schools. Both follow exactly the same format and the level of the question papers is identical. The only difference is that the content and treatment of topics in PET for Schools have been particularly targeted at the interests and experience of school pupils.

Why PET for Schools?

• PET for Schools is specially tailored to suit the interests of pupils, so it increases their motivation to learn English.
• Because it is based on familiar topics and situations, PET for Schools gives pupils the confidence to use their English.
• Passing PET for Schools inspires enthusiasm in pupils to move on to further qualifications.
• A Cambridge ESOL qualification gives pupils a head start in life. Our qualifications are recognised by colleges, universities, employers and governments around the world.

What will PET for Schools help pupils do?

PET for Schools is at Level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) – an internationally recognised framework.

At B1 level, typical users can:

• understand the main points of straightforward instructions or public announcements
• understand instructions on classes and homework given by a teacher or lecturer
• ask simple questions and take part in factual conversations in school and study environments
• write a description of an event, for example a school trip.

Preparation for PET for Schools will give a pupil these kinds of practical language skills.

What is involved in taking the PET for Schools exam?

PET for Schools has three papers:

Reading and Writing: 1hr 30 min
Candidates need to be able to read texts from signs, journals, newspapers and magazines and understand the main points. They will need to show they can use vocabulary and structure by completing tasks such as producing a short message, and writing a story or letter of around 100 words.

Listening: 30 min (approx)
Candidates need to show they can understand the meaning of a range of recorded spoken material, including announcements, interviews and discussions about everyday life. They will also need to be able to understand the attitudes and intentions of the speakers.

Speaking: 10-12 min
Candidates take part in a conversation, asking and answering questions, and talking freely about their likes and dislikes. They take the Speaking test with another candidate or in a group of three.

Fuente: University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations