What You'll Learn
- Understand the format and timing of Reading Part 2
- Master the strategy of analyzing diagrams before reading questions
- Learn to cross-reference text passages with visual elements efficiently
- Identify common diagram types and their unique navigation strategies
- Practice with realistic Part 2 questions and self-evaluate your approach
At a Glance
- Format: Text + diagram
- Questions: 8 questions
- Time: ~9 minutes
- Skill: Apply information
Reading Part 2 tests your ability to apply information from a written passage by cross-referencing it with a visual element. You’ll see a scenario description paired with a diagram, chart, table, schedule, or map.
Your task is to answer questions that require you to extract details from both the text and the visual. This mimics real-world Canadian tasks like reading workplace schedules, understanding organizational charts, or following transit maps.
How Part 2 Works
You’ll receive one combined stimulus: a passage of text (150-250 words) and a related diagram. The 8 multiple-choice questions test whether you can locate, match, and apply information accurately.
Common question types:
- Which option matches the description in the text?
- According to the diagram, who/what/when…?
- Which statement is correct based on both sources?
Diagram First, Text Second
Spend 30-45 seconds studying the diagram before you read the text. Understand its structure, labels, categories, and layout. This mental map helps you locate answers faster when questions arrive.
Common Diagram Types
Part 2 uses practical visuals you might encounter in Canadian workplaces, schools, or daily life.
Schedules and Timetables
These show events, shifts, or appointments across time slots. Look for column headers (days, times) and row labels (people, tasks).
Organizational Charts
Hierarchical diagrams showing reporting structures or department layouts. Identify who reports to whom and which teams connect.
Comparison Tables
Side-by-side information comparing products, services, or options. Note which features apply to which columns.
Maps and Floor Plans
Spatial layouts showing locations, rooms, or routes. Pay attention to directional cues (north, left wing) and labels.
Pattern recognition: Each diagram type has a predictable structure. Practice with one example of each type to build familiarity with how information is organized.
Your Step-by-Step Strategy
Follow this sequence to maximize accuracy and speed.
Step 1: Preview the Diagram (30-45 seconds)
Scan the visual element first. Identify:
- What type of diagram is it?
- What are the main categories or labels?
- How is information organized (rows, columns, hierarchy, location)?
Step 2: Skim the Text (45-60 seconds)
Read the passage quickly to understand the context and purpose. Don’t memorize details, just grasp the scenario.
Note which parts of the text refer to specific diagram elements.
Step 3: Read Each Question Carefully
Underline or note the key detail the question asks for (a name, time, location, or condition).
Step 4: Cross-Reference Text and Diagram
Use the text to narrow your search, then check the diagram for the precise answer or vice versa. Most questions require both sources.
Eliminate Wrong Answers First
If you’re unsure, cross out obviously incorrect options. Often two choices contradict the text or diagram directly, leaving you with a 50/50 guess at worst.
Step 5: Confirm Before Moving On
Double-check that your answer satisfies all conditions in the question. Many incorrect answers are partially correct but miss one detail.
Common Mistake: Relying on One Source Only
Many test-takers answer from the text alone or the diagram alone. Part 2 questions are designed to require both. Always verify your answer against the second source before selecting.
Practice Techniques
Build your Part 2 skills with these focused exercises.
Quick Practice Drills
- Find 5 real-world diagrams (bus schedules, org charts, store maps) and write 3 questions for each
- Time yourself: 10 minutes for one full Part 2 set
- Practice identifying diagram types in 5 seconds or less
- Highlight connections between text and diagram in practice passages
Canadian Context Practice
Look for diagrams related to Canadian scenarios:
- Community centre class schedules
- Transit system maps (TTC, TransLink, OC Transpo)
- Workplace shift calendars
- Recreation program comparison tables
This builds familiarity with vocabulary and formats you’ll see on test day.
CLB Insight: Scoring at CLB 7+ requires accurately interpreting complex diagrams with multiple categories and cross-referencing three or more details simultaneously.
Sample Task
Practice: Office Seating Chart
Passage:
The Marketing Department has reorganized its seating plan. Sarah Chen, the department head, sits in the corner office overlooking the courtyard. Her direct reports, Jamal, Sofia, and Liu, occupy the three cubicles adjacent to her office. Jamal manages the social media team, while Sofia oversees content creation. Liu handles analytics. The interns, Maya and Dev, share a workstation near the supply room. The conference room is located between Sarah’s office and the intern area.
Office Layout:
+------------------+--------+--------+--------+------------------+------------------+
| Sarah Chen | Jamal | Sofia | Liu | Conference Room | Maya & Dev |
| (Corner Office) | | | | | (Shared |
| overlooks | | | | | Workstation) |
| courtyard | | | | | |
+------------------+--------+--------+--------+------------------+------------------+
| Supply Room |
+------------------+Questions:
-
Who sits closest to the conference room?
A) Maya B) Jamal C) Sarah D) Liu
-
Which team does Sofia manage?
A) Social media B) Content creation C) Analytics D) Interns
-
Where is the supply room located?
A) Next to Sarah’s office B) Near the interns’ workstation C) Between the cubicles D) Across from the conference room
Show answers & explanations →
Answers:
-
C) Sarah: The text states the conference room is “between Sarah’s office and the intern area,” placing Sarah adjacent to it.
-
B) Content creation: The passage explicitly says “Sofia oversees content creation.”
-
B) Near the interns’ workstation: The text mentions “The interns, Maya and Dev, share a workstation near the supply room.”
Key Takeaway: Each question required checking both the text (for relationships and roles) and the diagram (for spatial layout).
Self-Check
- I studied the diagram structure before reading questions
- I cross-referenced text and diagram for each answer
- I eliminated obviously wrong options first
- I completed the task within 10 minutes
4/4 checks = strong Part 2 readiness; 2-3 checks = review strategy steps above
Final Tips
Time management: If you’re stuck on a question after 45 seconds, make your best guess and move on.
Accuracy over speed: Part 2 questions are straightforward if you cross-reference carefully. Rushing leads to misreading labels or skipping details.
Practice with diverse diagram types until you can identify their structure in seconds. This skill transfers directly to test day confidence.