Match ideas across related texts
Compare several short texts and match each question to the section that contains the relevant idea.
Section R · Reading
Exam scope and assessment notes
Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language (Speaking Endorsement) 0993, exams 2027–2029, 9–1 grading. Component 3 Speaking is separately endorsed and does not contribute to the written grade. Component 1 has four reading and two writing exercises; there is no summary-writing task. StudyForA's browser voice reads original practice prompts, not Cambridge audio. The local speaking recording supports self-review only; it does not award official marks or score pronunciation. In June and November, Cambridge lists this qualification in Administrative zone 3 and for centres in Oman and the UAE. Check availability for your centre and exam series.
Before you begin
- The syllabus is intended for learners who already have a working knowledge of English. Check the syllabus and your centre's arrangements for the examination year.
Work on paper. Try each question before revealing help, and explain why your method works.
Quick readiness check
Why can a paraphrase still match a text?
What you will learn
- Select relevant information for the task
- Explain how wording and context support an answer
- Communicate clearly for the stated purpose
Build a quick map of each text
When a passage is split into sections or several related texts are shown, note each section's main focus in a few words. This makes later matching faster.
Questions may paraphrase rather than repeat a phrase. Match the meaning and the relationship, not only identical vocabulary.
Test every match
For each question, identify the key idea, then locate the section that supports it. Check that no other section offers a closer match.
Some sections may answer more than one question and some may answer none. Follow the task instructions rather than assuming one-to-one matching.
Pause and explain
If two sections seem possible, what should you do?
Worked example
Three learners describe clubs. A: 'I joined to meet people and practise conversation.' B: 'I wanted to use the workshop tools for a design project.' C: 'I chose the club because it meets before school.' Which learner mentions a practical reason?
Show the worked solution
- The question asks for a reason linked to practical activity.
- B connects the club with tools and a design project.
- Meeting people and meeting time are different kinds of reasons.
Answer Learner B
Try a topic test
Choose Easy, Normal or Difficult. Save your answers and open worked review after finishing.
Test this topic →From guided practice to a new situation
Write your answer and reasoning first. Use a hint only if you are stuck. The model solution is for self-checking; your written work is not automatically marked.
A: 'I prefer the train because I can read on the journey.' B: 'I cycle because the route is short.' Which speaker gives a reason connected to using travel time?
Give me a hint
Look for what the speaker can do while travelling.
Compare my reasoning
- Identify the focus: use of journey time.
- Compare the reason in each statement.
- Match the focus to the speaker who mentions reading.
Speaker A.
Look for these in your work
- Question focus identified
- Matching reason explained
A: 'The market is busiest at noon.' B: 'Most shoppers arrive after work.' C: 'Vendors donate unsold food at closing.' Which section describes a community benefit?
Give me a hint
Distinguish timing from an outcome for others.
Compare my reasoning
- Identify the idea of a benefit to the community.
- Check which section describes an effect beyond the market itself.
- Reject statements that only give a time or pattern.
Section C, because donating food benefits other people.
Look for these in your work
- Relevant effect selected
- Timing details rejected
You must match six questions to five learner profiles. One profile may fit more than one question. What should you check before reusing it?
Give me a hint
The instructions set the matching rules.
Compare my reasoning
- Read whether sections can be used more than once.
- Match each question by meaning and evidence.
- Reuse a profile only when it independently supports another question.
Reuse a profile only if the instructions allow it and its wording supports each question.
Look for these in your work
- Instructions checked
- Each match evidence-based
Common mistakes
- Matching on a repeated word while ignoring the idea
- Assuming each section can be used only once when the instructions do not say so
What can you explain now?
What is the best first step when matching questions to short texts?
Compare with the explanation
Summarise each section's focus briefly
A quick map makes the distinctions easier to compare.
After trying it yourself, choose your next review. This is your self-assessment.
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Make it stick
How can you match a paraphrased question without relying on repeated words?
If you needed the solution, close it and solve the problem again from a blank page. A correct answer is stronger when you can explain the reason for each step.