45 exam-style questions on Vocabulary — topic SK.Vocabulary of Skills in the IB English B syllabus — with answers and explanations. Samples below; the full set is free with an account.
Phrasal verb: 'My car broke ___ on the motorway and I had to call for help.'
Answer: down
'Break down' means to stop working (for a machine or vehicle). Phrasal verbs change meaning with each particle.
Phrasal verb: 'I don't know this word, so I'll ___ it ___ in the dictionary.'
Answer: look ... up
'Look up' means to search for information in a reference source. 'Look after' means to take care of someone.
Word formation: Add a prefix to give the opposite meaning of 'possible'.
Answer: impossible
The negative prefix in- becomes im- before 'p', 'b' or 'm': possible becomes impossible, polite becomes impolite. The prefix must still be learnt with each word, since some p-words take un- (unpleasant); 'unpossible' and 'inpossible' do not exist.
Collocation: Which verb goes with 'a decision'? 'After a long discussion, they finally ___ a decision.'
Answer: made
We 'make a decision' in English, not 'do', 'get' or 'give' one. Collocations are word partnerships you should learn together.
Register: Which phrase is most appropriate to begin a formal email?
Answer: I am writing to enquire about your services.
Formal writing uses full forms and polite fixed phrases like 'I am writing to enquire'. Avoid slang and contractions in formal contexts.
Which connector expresses CONTRAST?
Answer: however
'However' signals contrast. 'Moreover' adds, 'therefore' concludes, 'for example' illustrates.
That was 6 of 45 Vocabulary questions.
Practise all 45 free45 Vocabulary questions — free with an account. Spaced repetition, streaks and full exam simulations included.
Practise them freeThis platform is independently developed and is not endorsed by, affiliated with, or sponsored by the International Baccalaureate Organization. “International Baccalaureate” and “IB” are registered trademarks of the IBO.