1. Comprehension Tests

2. Where to start?
Do NOT panic – A comprehension becomes easy if you know what to do 
The big secret is to first skim through the passage and then carefully read the questions.
Then you Read the whole passage a second time, keeping the questions in mind.
Pay attention when you do this!

3. Non comprende?
When you stumble across words or phrases you do not understand, do not get hysterical! Breathe.
Try to work out the meaning from the context – look at what is written before and after.
Try to see if the words are similar to words you do understand.

4. Always follow instructions!
A few hints
The title may provide information on the content and intention of the text.
The introductory paragraph generally sets the atmosphere and provides the setting.
The conclusion normally ties up the intention of the author.
Always follow instructions!

5. This is very important:
Does the answer need a full sentence, a word or a phrase?
Do not start answers with conjunctions (because, but, so).
Your answer’s length should correspond to the mark allocation.
Never give more answers than specified.
Answers must be clearly expressed to avoid a loss of marks.
Avoid waffling at all times.

6. Types of questions

7. Contextual questions These test the storyline.
The answers will be in the passage.
These are who, what, where and when type of questions.

8. Inferential questions
These test your ability to understand and interpret the passage.
You will have to work out the answer – read between the lines!
You must draw conclusions based on the passage and your experience.

9. Language usage questions
These will include vocabulary, grammar, punctuation and figurative language.
These must always be answered in context.
You may also be asked to comment on the author’s use of language in the passage.

10. Style questions
These questions will require you to analyse the author’s use of specific vocabulary, grammar, punctuation and figurative language.
You must be able to identify stylistic devices:
Repetition, contrast, jargon, colloquialism, emotive language, connotation, juxtaposition, use of world events and famous people, inversion, figures of speech.
Style may be described as narrative, descriptive, formal, informal, simple, elevated, scientific, humorous.

11. Tone questions
These will ask how the author conveys his/her feelings, moods and attitudes.
These emotions may be directly stated or implied in the passage.
Always use one adjective to describe the tone.
Angry, apologetic, arrogant, awed, bitter, condescending, gloomy, humorous, impersonal, ironic, neutral, persuasive, sarcastic, sharp, superficial, sympathetic, tongue-in-cheek, witty

12. Questions about the author’s intention
First you need to know what the intention is and then assess if it has been achieved.
Your opinion must be clearly substantiated.
An author’s purpose may be to amuse, condemn, criticise, educate, entertain, explain, inform, persuade, praise or ridicule.

13. Opinion questions These ask you to give a response on the passage.
You may be asked to assess a given situation or comment on the writer’s style and/or intentions.
You must clearly justify your opinion with well-reasoned arguments or facts.
These questions require a mature and level-headed response.