Basic Matura in English – Informational Guide
The basic level matura exam tests language skills at the B1 level (with elements of B1+) on the CEFR scale. It is a mandatory exam for every graduate.
Key facts:
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Total number of points: 60
- Passing threshold: 30% (18 points)
Exam Structure
1. Listening Comprehension (approx. 25 min)
This part is based on audio recordings played twice. It tests general understanding and the ability to find specific information.
- True/False: assessment of the truthfulness of given statements.
- Multiple choice: choosing one of three options (A, B, or C).
- Matching: matching the main idea to statements from several people.
2. Reading Comprehension
Working with literary, journalistic, or informational texts.
- Matching headlines: matching titles to paragraphs.
- Text gaps: filling in the text with missing sentences (cohesion test).
- Multiple choice: classic questions about the content of the text.
- Locating information: indicating which part of the text contains the answer to the question.
3. Knowledge of Language Means
Tasks that test grammar and vocabulary in context.
- Gap test: choosing the correct word/form from three available options.
- Paraphrases: choosing the sentence with the closest meaning.
- Translation of fragments: translating parts of a sentence into English.
4. Written Expression
Writing a practical text (email, blog post) of 100–150 words.
- Four points given in the prompt must be developed.
- The content, coherence, range of language means, and correctness are assessed.
Scoring
| Exam part | Number of points | Percentage share |
|---|---|---|
| Listening Comprehension | 15 pts | 25% |
| Reading Comprehension | 20 pts | 33% |
| Knowledge of Language Means | 13 pts | 22% |
| Written Expression | 12 pts | 20% |