Part 2

For questions 9-16, read the text below and think of the word which best fits each gap. Use only one word in each gap. There is an example at the beginning (0). In the exam, write your answers IN CAPITAL LETTERS on the separate answer sheet.

Example: HAVE

Double act

What 0_______ Laurel and Hardy, French and Saunders and Ant and Dec got in common? Even 9 you haven’t the faintest idea who they are, the clue lies 10 the pairing of names: they are – or were – ‘double acts’.

A double act 11 also known as a comedy duo, a form of comedy performance traditional in the UK and USA. Two artists perform 12 one, either on stage or on screen. Many 13 so for their entire working lives, forming a close bond with each other and establishing themselves as a mainstay of TV entertainment. Traditionally, one of the performers is the ‘straight’ man – or woman – who sets up the jokes for the ‘comic’, but there are other variations 14 less defined roles.

Why has this perhaps odd-sounding form of comedy long 15 such a success? Maybe because we see two good mates having a laugh together, and it reminds us of our own friendships. 16 the reason, the double act, it seems, is here to stay.

Click to download this CAE Use of English Part 2 Worksheet in PDF.

For this task: Answers with explanations