Reading ECPE

This edition of sample tests for the Michigan Language Assessment Examination for the Certificate of Proficiency in English (ECPE) has been designed specifically for students preparing for the challenging GCVR (Parts 1-4: Grammar, Cloze, Vocabulary and Reading) section of the examination.

The content has been written to closely replicate the ECPE experience, and has undergone comprehensive expert and peer review. You or your students, if you are a teacher, will hopefully enjoy the wide range of text topics and benefit from the repetitive practice, something that is key to preparing for the GCVR section of the examination.

Each test comprises 70 multiple-choice questions, each carrying one mark, and candidates are given 75 minutes in which to complete the four parts of the GCVR section:

1. Grammar: 16 questions testing grammatical fluency, phrasal verb particles, word formation and prepositions.

2. Cloze (multiple choice): 20 questions testing lexical and grammatical ability within the context of two texts, each comprising 200-250 words.

3. Vocabulary: 16 questions testing knowledge of phrasal verbs, phrases and idioms.

4. Reading: 18 questions testing candidates' understanding of meaning in context, reference words, implication, purpose and tone within the context of three texts, each comprising 300-350 words.

Fiona Aish has co-written several titles in exam preparation and EAP, and creates materials and assessment resources for a range of educational providers. She is DELTA-qualified and holds an MA in ELT and Applied Linguistics.

Jo Tomlinson has co-written a number of books on EAP and exam preparation, and currently works full-time as an exams and materials developer. She is DELTA-qualified and holds an MA in Language Testing.