1. The first part of the IGCSE Speaking Test is the warm-up phase. The examiner will ask you a few questions about yourself and your interests. Remember that this phase is not marked but the examiner will appreciate your effort to express yourself freely and accurately.
2. In the assessment, marks are given to candidates who can successfully engage in a conversation with the examiner. After all, this is the aim of the speaking test:to test your ability with spoken English. But, by all means, don't use slang expressions. For instance don't say : "I didn't mean to screw my folks up". Say: "I didin't mean to upset my parents"
3. Try to answer the examiner's questions as fully as possible. Avoid yes/no / I don't know answers. Don't be afraid to take a little extra time to think of replies which will be helpful in keeping an interesting conversation going between you and the examiner.
4. Don't worry too much about mistakes and grammar. Remember, communicating effectively in a natural and lively way is much more important than perfect grammar or pronunciation.
5. If you don't understand a question, ask for clarification with questions such as: "Could you, please, repeat that? I didn't quite understand". If you can't think of a certain word in English , do not say it in your mother tongue! You can tell the examiner:"Ah well, that word is on the tip of my tongue....anyway, I mean..." and try to explain in other words what you really mean.
6. The highest mark (Grade 1) goes to candidates who are capable of engaging successfully in a conversation with a native speaker of English.
7. Most importantly, don't be afraid to speak and don't let your accent be a barrier. After all, there is a wide range of regional accents and dialects in the UK. Just try to make good conversation with your examiner.
