Cambridge C1 (CAE) Reading Part 6 Strategy - Cross-Text Multiple Matching

In the Cambridge C1 reading test, Reading Part 6 requires you to match information or opinions across multiple texts...

Hayley Morris English Teacher at i-Speak English

If you're preparing for the Cambridge C1 exam, you'll have to take on one of the most challenging parts of the CAE reading section - Reading Part 6: Cross-Text Multiple Matching. This task can seem daunting at first, but don’t worry—I'm here to help you ace this part of the Cambridge Advanced exam like a pro.

What is Cross-Text Multiple Matching?

In the Cambridge C1 reading test, Reading Part 6 requires you to match information or opinions across multiple texts. Typically, you will be given four short texts by different writers on a similar topic. Your job? To identify connections between these texts based on specific opinions from different writers.

What Does It Test?

This task assesses your ability to understand and compare opinions or attitudes across different texts. It tests your skills in:

Reading comprehension: How well can you grasp the gist and specific details of each text?
Cross-textual understanding: Can you identify how these texts relate to one another?
Analytical thinking: Are you able to analyze and evaluate opinions or arguments across different sources?

Types of Questions: Specific vs. General

You’ll encounter two main types of questions in this part of the C1 reading:

Specific Questions: These ask you to locate precise information or specific opinions within the texts. They are usually more straightforward to answer because they refer to a specific writer (question 38 in the picture).
General Questions: These are more challenging because they ask which writer has a different opinion to all of the others so it requires you to read more (question 37 in the picture).

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The Art of Skimming and Scanning: Why It's Vital for Cross-Text Multiple Matching

In the context of the Cambridge C1 exam, especially during the cross-text multiple matching task, you're dealing with multiple texts and a variety of questions that require both broad and specific answers. Here’s why skimming and scanning are crucial:

Efficiency: You have limited time to read and comprehend multiple texts and then match information across them. Skimming and scanning allow you to move quickly through the content, picking up key ideas without getting bogged down in details initially.
Prioritization: These techniques help you prioritize information. By skimming, you get the gist or the main idea of each text, which is essential for answering general questions. Scanning, on the other hand, helps you locate specific details and keywords pertinent to the specific questions.

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RELATED: Reading Part 7 - Cambridge C1 (CAE) - Gapped Text Strategy

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How to Skim and Scan Effectively

Skimming: To skim effectively, read the title, subtitles, and any headings first. Then let your eyes float over the text quickly, noting important words or phrases that pop out. You're not reading every word; you're looking for the essence of the text, the main themes, or the general sentiment expressed by the author.
Scanning: Scanning is about looking for specific information. Once you know what you need to find (like a name, date, statistic, or specific opinion), let your eyes dart down the text until you find that piece of data. This is particularly useful after you've skimmed and have a good idea where the information might be located within the text.

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Winning Strategy for Cross-Text Multiple Matching

Now, let's break down a foolproof strategy to conquer this section. Follow these steps, and you’ll find the right answer in no time!

1. DON'T read the text first

Don't waste time slowly reading the text. Go to the questions first and focus on finding exactly the information you need.

2. Answer Specific Questions First

Start with the specific questions. Why? Because they help you familiarize yourself with the content of each text without getting overwhelmed. These questions help you focus on a specfic text to compare and contrast before you tackle the more complex general questions.

3. Scan the Text for Key Ideas Related to the Question

Once you've identified the opinion in the specific question, SCAN the texts for keywords or ideas related to the opinion. Don’t get bogged down reading every word; your goal here is to locate specific information efficiently.

4. Decide If the Writer's Opinion Is Positive or Negative + Make a Note

For each text, try to determine the writer’s overall sentiment towards the topic—positive, negative, or neutral. Jot this down as it will help you later when you need to compare opinions or attitudes across texts.

5. Scan Other Texts for a Similar Idea + Make Note If It Agrees or Disagrees

Once you understand the opinion in one text, scan the others for similar ideas or themes. Note whether these texts agree or disagree with each other.

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Need more help with Cambridge C1 Reading?

Check out my Cambridge C1 Advanced Reading Video course!

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Like any other skill, mastering cross-text multiple matching takes practice. Take as many practice exams as you can and with exam exercise, you will hone your ability to scan information quickly and accurately, improving your speed and confidence. Reading Part 6 of the Cambridge C1 might initially seem like a Herculean task, but with the right approach, it becomes an exciting puzzle to solve. Use the reading strategy above to complete this part of the cae exam systematically. Remember, understanding the structure and intention behind each question type is half the battle won.

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