What is Cambridge Starters?

The Cambridge English: Starters (YLE Starters) exam is the first of three exams designed for young learners of English. It is part of the Cambridge English Young Learners (YLE) suite of exams, which is targeted at children aged 3 to 12. The Starters exam is specifically designed for beginners and aims to assess the basic language skills of young learners.

Here's what learners need to know for the Cambridge Starters exam:

1. Overview of the Exam:

• The Starters exam is the first level of the Cambridge English Young Learners exams and is suitable for children who have just started learning English.

• The exam focuses on three key language skills: listening, reading and writing, and speaking.

1. Listening Section:

• In the listening section, learners will listen to spoken English and answer questions about what they hear.

• The audio materials include conversations, instructions, and stories that are appropriate for young learners.

1. Reading and Writing Section:

• The reading and writing section assesses the ability to understand and use basic English vocabulary and structures.

• Learners will read short texts and answer questions. There may also be simple writing tasks such as completing sentences or filling in blanks.

1. Speaking Section:

• The speaking section involves a one-on-one interview with an examiner. This aims to assess the ability to communicate in English.

• Children will be asked to talk about themselves, their likes and dislikes, and their everyday experiences.

1. Vocabulary and Grammar:

• Learners should have a basic understanding of common English vocabulary related to topics such as family, colours, numbers, food, and animals.

• Basic grammar concepts like simple present tense, plurals, and prepositions are also covered.

1. Communication Skills:

• The exam encourages the development of basic communication skills. Children should be able to express simple ideas and respond to simple questions in English.

1. Practice and Familiarisation:

• It's beneficial for learners to practice with sample papers and familiarise themselves with the format of the exam.

• Teachers and parents can provide support by creating a positive and English-rich environment, incorporating English into daily activities, and encouraging regular practice.

1. Fun and Engaging Learning:

• The Starters exam is designed to be enjoyable for young learners. Teachers and parents can use creative and interactive methods to make learning fun, such as games, songs, and storytelling.

1. Exam Format:

• Familiarity with the exam format is crucial. Understanding how to navigate through different sections and manage time effectively during the exam is important for success.

1. Listening Skills:

• Developing listening skills is vital for success in the listening section. Regular exposure to spoken English through listening to stories, songs, and simple conversations can help.

By focusing on these aspects, young learners can be well-prepared for the Cambridge Starters exam, setting a solid foundation for their English language learning journey.