Speaking Test
Duration and format
The Speaking test takes between 11 and 14 minutes and consists of an oral interview between the candidate and an examiner. All Speaking tests are recorded.
Task types
There are three parts to the test and each part fulfils a specific function in terms of interaction pattern, task input and candidate output.
In Part 1: this is Introduction and interview.
Here, the Examiner introduces him/herself and confirms the candidate’s identity.
The examiner interviews the candidate using verbal questions selected from familiar topic frames.
This lasts for between 4–5 minutes.
The candidates answer broad questions about themselves, their homes/families, their jobs/studies, them interests, and a range of familiar topic areas. This part lasts between four and five minutes.
In Part 2: Individual long turn
The examiner asks the candidate to speak for 1–2 minutes on a particular topic based on written input in the form of a candidate task card and content focused prompts. Examiner asks one
or two questions to round off the long turn. This lasts between 3–4 minutes (including 1-minute preparation time). I.e., the candidate is given a verbal prompt on a card and is asked to talk on a particular topic. The candidate has one minute to prepare before speaking at length, for between one and two minutes. The examiner then asks one or two rounding-off questions.
In Part 3: Two-way discussion
The examiner invites the candidate to participate in discussion of a more abstract nature, based on verbal questions thematically linked to Part 2 topic. It also lasts between 4–5 minutes. Here, the examiner and candidate engage in a discussion of more abstract issues and concepts which are thematically linked to the topic prompt in Part 2. The discussion lasts between four and five minutes.
TIPS FOR SPEAKING
• speak fluently and without hesitation,
• use various vocabulary,
• avoid grammar mistakes,
• pronounce words well.
• Be fluent and liberated, speak freely
• Practice sample questions, but do not memorize answers.
• Ask the question again if you need to.
• Be emotional and enthusiastic about your response.
• Extend your speech.
• Be coherent.
• Do not panic. Comport yourself to make a good first impression.