Speaking Test: Practice

You will listen to a candidate during the Speaking Test. We did not publish the audio transcriptions as – at this stage of the course – you should be able to understand what the students are being asked and what they are commenting.

And now listen to the examiner's instructions while you look at the two photos below. The examiner usually starts by introducing ideas or questions very similar to these: "Here are your pictures. They show people doing dangerous activities. I'd like you to compare two of the pictures and say what different skills each activity involves, and how these activities make people feel".

USUAL PROMPT CARDS USED IN THE TEST

Topic: Truth and dishonesty

GOOD CANDIDATE TECHNIQUES

1.

Use as wide a range of correct language as you can to show what you can do well. Don't worry too much about making mistakes!

2.

Be as communicative as you can. Don't be afraid to introduce ideas and ask questions where appropriate. Make the task of getting language, reactions and ideas out of you as easy as possible.

3.

If you are taking the "collaborative task", cooperate with the other candidate. Don't try to dominate her or him: good communication is helped by a cooperative attitude and harmed by competition.