In this article, we will be focusing on learning some new idioms, collocations, and phrases to aim for higher scores in Speaking and Writing questions, especially questions related to the Entertainment topic.
This is your Idioms and Collocations series, No. 6, Entertainment topic.
1. On the edge of my seat (idiom)
Meaning: Very excited and giving your full attention to something
Example: The movie kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time.
2. A whale of a time (idiom)
Meaning: To enjoy yourself very much; to have a very good time
Example: The kids had a whale of a time while watching a cartoon.
3. To make a clown of yourself (idiom)
Meaning: Used to say that a son’s character or behaviour is similar to that of his father
Example: Like father, like son. His father also likes jogging early in the morning.
4. Close-knit family (phrases)
Meaning: Members in the family have strong relationships with each other and take a close, friendly interest in each other’s activities and problems
Example: We are a close-knit family, and we always go out together on weekends.
5. In the limelight (idiom)
Meaning: A person who is very similar to their mother or father in the way that they look or behave
Example: Janice is a chip off the old block, she looks like a princess just like her mother.
6. Pack out (of shows, performers (phrases)
Meaning: To attract enough people to completely fill in a theatre, etc.
Example: The theatre was packed out before we got inside.
7. Walk out (of something) (phrases)
Meaning: To leave a meeting, performance, etc. suddenly, especially in order to show that you do not like or approve of it.
Example: Most of the audience walked out of the theatre before the movie ended.
Let’s visit the DET Practice Website and put all new vocabulary into practice.
Here is our first sample question: Writing Sample, Level 3, question number 31 on the DET Practice Website.
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Should we ban students from playing games? What are the pros and cons of video games? How to play video games properly?
Sample answer:
From my point of view, I believe banning students from playing games entirely may not be the best solution. Video games offer both benefits and drawbacks, and teaching students to play them responsibly can yield better outcomes. On the positive side, video games can improve problem-solving skills, enhance hand-eye coordination, and even boost creativity. Additionally, multiplayer games encourage teamwork and social interaction. However, excessive gaming can lead to negative effects, such as poor academic performance, lack of physical activity, and even addiction.
To ensure students enjoy video games without harming their overall well-being, proper guidelines are crucial. For instance, setting time limits helps prevent overindulgence. Parents and educators should encourage students to balance gaming with other activities, such as sports, studies, and spending time with family. Choosing age-appropriate and educational games can also make gaming a productive activity.
In conclusion, instead of banning video games, guiding students to play them in moderation is a more effective approach.
If you write your answer to our DET Practice Website, you will receive the following detailed feedback including all the grading elements that the Duolingo English Test uses to assess your skills.
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Here is our second sample answer: Read then Speak, Level 2, Question number 1 on the DET Practice Website.
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Talk about a film you saw recently.
What was it about;
When did you see it;
Who was the main character;
What else do you remember about it.
Sample answer:
Speaking of a film that I recently saw, it was a heartwarming movie called The Pursuit of Happyness. It is a deeply inspiring story about perseverance and hope. The film revolves around Chris Gardner, a struggling salesman who faces numerous hardships while trying to provide a better future for his young son. Despite losing his home and enduring financial struggles, he never gives up on his dream of securing a stable career. The story highlights the power of determination and the bond between a parent and child. I saw this movie last weekend at home. It had been on my list for a while, and I finally made the time to enjoy it. The main character, Chris Gardner, was portrayed by Will Smith, whose performance was exceptional. His portrayal made the struggles and emotions of the character feel incredibly real. Moreover, his real-life son, Jaden Smith, played the role of Chris's son, which added a touching layer of authenticity to their interactions. One scene that stood out to me was when Chris and his son had to spend a night in a subway station bathroom. It was both heartbreaking and inspiring, as it showed Chris’s resilience and his determination to protect his son. In summary, The Pursuit of Happyness left me feeling motivated and grateful.
Similar to the first sample question, here is your detailed feedback after submitting your practising answer to the DET Practice Website.
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Live-Interactive DET Practice Platform
Practicing is one thing, having detailed and accurate feedback for improvement is another. While some YouTube channels provide lots of practising questions free of charge, they do not offer interactive platforms and instant feedback for determining your mistakes, which are vital for future development.
On the DET Practice Website, members have the best simulation of the Duolingo English Test. By becoming our Premium members, students receive the following benefits:
Thousands of practicing questions;
Hundreds of Interactive Reading and Interactive Listening sets;
At least 17 one-hour Mock Tests with estimated scores;
Instant detailed feedback for all question types;
Same grading elements as what DET uses to evaluate your scores;
Alongside many other supporting features.
If you are new to the DET or haven’t obtained your desired scores yet, this Five-Step Preparation Strategy will help you significantly.
Visit the DET Practice Platform, create your free account and start experiencing everything to take another step closer to your desired score.
