Unit 1: The Gifts of Youth
Discover the immense potential of young people, their qualities, and how they shape the future of society.
1. Vocabulary & Word Formation
To succeed in the exam, you need a precise vocabulary. Below are the essential terms describing the characteristics of youth.
A. Qualities (Adjectives)
- Ambitious: Having a strong desire to succeed.
Ex: "She is ambitious; she wants to be a pilot." - Creative: Using imagination to create new ideas.
Ex: "Youth are creative in solving problems." - Audacious: Bold and willing to take risks.
Ex: "His audacious plan surprised everyone." - Energetic / Vigorous: Full of energy and life.
- Sociable: Friendly and enjoys being with people.
- Reliable: Can be trusted to do what is expected.
B. Word Formation (Exam Key)
| Adjective | Noun (Concept) |
|---|---|
| Ambitious | Ambition |
| Creative | Creativity |
| Audacious | Audacity |
| Vigorous | Vigour |
| Strong | Strength |
| Vital | Vitality |
| Flexible | Flexibility |
C. Idioms & Phrasal Verbs
Idioms are crucial for getting high marks. Here are the must-know expressions for this unit:
🧩 Idioms
- A piece of cake: Very easy.
"The math test was a piece of cake." - All ears: Listening attentively.
"Tell me your story, I'm all ears." - In the prime of life: The best/strongest stage of life.
- Break a leg: Good luck (used before performance).
🔄 Phrasal Verbs
- Take up: Start a hobby/sport.
- Look up: Search for information.
- Give up: Stop trying / Quit.
- Bring about: Cause something to happen.
2. Functions: Expressing Opinion
In the "Type 2" exercises of the exam, you need these exact expressions.
| Function | Formal / Academic Phrases | Informal / Friendly Phrases |
|---|---|---|
| Asking for Opinion | • What is your view on...? • Do you share the view that...? |
• What do you think about...? • How do you see...? |
| Giving Opinion | • From my perspective... • It seems to me that... • As far as I'm concerned... |
• I think... • I believe... • In my humble opinion... |
| Agreeing | • I entirely agree. • I share your view. |
• You're right. • Spot on! |
| Disagreeing | • I am afraid I cannot agree. • I see your point, but... |
• I disagree. • No way! (Slang) |
3. Grammar: Gerund vs Infinitive
A. Gerund (Verb + ing)
Use -ing after these verbs:
• Avoid
• Admit
• Deny
• Keep
• Finish
• Mind
• Suggest
B. Infinitive (to + Verb)
Use to... after these verbs:
• Hope
• Decide
• Plan
• Promise
• Refuse
• Offer
• Agree
⚠️ Warning: Meaning Change
STOP changes meaning depending on what follows:
- Stop smoking: He quit. He doesn't smoke anymore.
- Stop to smoke: He paused what he was doing in order to smoke.
4. Writing: Descriptive Essay
Task: Describe a person (friend, family member, or idol).
🏗️ Essay Structure (The 3-Paragraph Rule)
- Introduction: Introduce the person. Who are they? How do you know them?
- Body Paragraph 1 (Appearance): Describe physical traits (Tall, dark hair, casual clothes...).
- Body Paragraph 2 (Personality): Describe character traits (Ambitious, kind, funny...). Use Unit 1 adjectives!
- Conclusion: Your feelings towards them. Why are they special?
📄 Sample Essay: "My Inspirational Grandfather"
Throughout my life, I have met many interesting people, but the person I admire the most is my grandfather, Brahim. He has been a role model for me since I was a child.
Physically, Brahim is an elderly man in his seventies, but he still looks vigorous. He is tall with broad shoulders. He has deep, wise eyes. He usually wears a traditional Djellaba.
Personality-wise, my grandfather is incredibly wise and patient. He is also very sociable. Despite his age, he remains open-minded. He taught me that ambition is nothing without hard work.
In conclusion, my grandfather is my hero. His combination of strength and kindness inspires me every day.
5. The Practice Gym (10 Exercises) ⚡
Testing your knowledge is the best way to learn. Click "Show Solution" to check your answer.