This lesson practises 30 C2 collocations on Study & Education. Collocations are fixed word pairings that native speakers expect — Cambridge examiners test them in Use of English Part 1 and reward precise lexis in Writing. Run through the interactive drills first, then open this glossary to revise every item in the set. For question-by-question feedback, use Review mode after you finish the session.
sign up for a course
You can sign up for a course through the student portal.
school of sardines
The documentary followed a school of sardines near the reef.
got the hang of the software
After a few lessons, the student got the hang of the software.
mental agility
Puzzles can improve mental agility in older learners.
have absolutely no idea
I have absolutely no idea how to solve the final question.
good knowledge
She has a good knowledge of French grammar.
academic year
The academic year begins in September at the college.
full marks
He received full marks for the final calculation.
play truant
He was warned not to play truant from morning classes.
meet academic standards
Every dissertation must meet academic standards for referencing.
develop critical-thinking skills
Debates can help students develop critical-thinking skills.
hand in assignments
Students must hand in assignments through the online portal.
quick learner
She is a quick learner who adapted to the new software quickly.
school of fish
The biology film showed a school of fish moving together.
gain marks
Students can gain marks by supporting their answers with evidence.
thirst for knowledge
Her thirst for knowledge led her to take extra classes.
learn something by heart
The students had to learn the key formulae by heart before the test.
ask for an extension
You should ask for an extension before the assignment deadline.
enrol on a course
She plans to enrol on a course in environmental science.
highly educated
At a university seminar, the students were highly educated.
set text
The novel is a set text for the final exam.
common knowledge
It is common knowledge that the library closes early on Fridays.
request an extension
If you are ill, request an extension as soon as possible.
become aware of something
Many learners become aware of their mistakes when they record themselves.
good level of education
A good level of education can widen career options.
acquire knowledge
Students acquire knowledge through reading, discussion and practice.
win a scholarship
She hopes to win a scholarship for postgraduate study.
attend school
Children are required to attend school until the end of compulsory education.
core subject
Mathematics is a core subject in the first year.
submit assignments
Students must submit assignments before midnight on Friday.