The speaking test will take about 11 to 14 minutes to complete. There are three sections in total. These are as follows:
- Part 1 – Introduction and interview. This lasts for about 4 to 5 minutes. In this section, the Examiner will introduce him/herself and ask you questions about yourself.
- Part 2 – Individual long turn. Part 2 lasts for about 3 to 4 minutes. In this section, you will be asked to prepare and give a short presentation for about one to two minutes on a given subject.
- Part 3 – Two-way discussion. Part 3 lasts for 4 to 5 minutes. In this section, you will be asked to have a series of short discussions linked to the subject you spoke about in part 2.
Assessment
Overall, you will be assessed on your:
- fluency and coherence – is how smoothly you speak and the logical/topic development of your ideas
- lexical resource – is the variety and accuracy of your vocabulary related to what is discussed during the test
- grammar and accuracy – is how well you use sentences and structure, word forms and tenses
- pronunciation – is how clearly you speak and how easy it is for the examiner to understand you
General Advice
Before the test
- The more familiar you are with everyday social English the more fluent you will sound.
- Make sure you understand the structure and procedures of the test.
- Talk aloud to and record yourself so you are comfortable hearing your own voice.
- Try and talk in English as much as possible for at least half an hour before the test.
- Your appearance may have an unconscious effect on the examiner, so dress neatly and simple.
- Arrive early. Sometimes examiners get ahead of their schedule.
During the test
- Try to look confident. Don’t fold your arms or use other negative body language.
- Sit straight in the chair and pay attention at all times during the test.
- Being nervous is OK. Everyone is! Don’t say to the examiner ‘I’m nervous’ or any other negative comments about yourself during the test.
- Speaking fluently does not mean speaking quickly. Speak at the same moderate pace/speed throughout the whole test.
- If you feel you are talking too much; finish your answer, stop and wait for the next question.
- Be aware of time by recognizing when each section of the test ends.
- Be polite and keep eye contact with the examiner.
- Don’t worry if the examiner does not look at you or appears distant. He or she is only there to assess you.
- The examiner is not your friend. Do not talk about their looks, clothing or ask personal questions.
- Do not ask for advice or a score at the end of the test.