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  • Extended Matura – sentence transformations

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    Extended Matura: Language Transformations

    Sentence transformations (paraphrases) are a permanent element of the extended level matura exam. They check not only knowledge of grammar but above all the ability to operate various language structures.

    Rules of the Game: What do you need to remember?

    • Word limit: Usually, you need to use from 2 to 5 words (including the key word).
    • Do not change the form of the key word: The word given in capital letters must remain in the same form.
    • Maintain meaning: The resulting sentence must mean exactly the same as the original sentence.
    • Spelling correctness: One small spelling mistake means 0 points for the entire sentence.

    Typical constructions in the matura

    Most tasks are based on specific grammatical „sure bets.” Here is what appears most often:

    1. Stylistic inversion
    Sentence: I have never seen such a beautiful sunset.
    Keyword: NEVER
    Result: Never have I seen such a beautiful sunset.
    2. Constructions with „Wish” and „If only”
    Sentence: I regret not buying that car.
    Keyword: WISH
    Result: I wish I had bought that car.
    3. Passive voice and „Have something done”
    Sentence: A professional is painting my house right now.
    Keyword: HAVING
    Result: I am having my house painted right now.
    💡 Pro Tip: Always count words on your fingers! Students often lose points because they write 6 words, even though the construction is grammatically correct. If you end up with too many words, look for another synonym or abbreviation.

    Preparation strategy

    1. Identify the structure: Is it reported speech? Or maybe the conditional mood? Knowing „what the author meant” is half the success.
    2. Create a base of structures: Write down pairs: regret doing = wish I hadn’t done; it’s a pity = if only.
    3. Analyze answer keys: CKE often allows two correct versions – learn both.

    Want to practice in practice?

    We have prepared a base of the most common transformations that appeared on the matura exams in recent years.

    Go to online exercises