A. What's in the Speaking Test?
- Part 1: conversation with the examiner in which you give personal information and opinions.
- Part 2: you compare 2 photographs and answer a question.
- Part 3: you discuss some pictures with the other candidate and reach a decision.
- Part 4: further discussion with the examiner about the task from Part 3
Time: 15 minutes per pair of candidates
Your speaking is assessed on:
- grammar and vocabulary
- discourse management (= development of ideas)
- pronunciation
- interactive communication
- global achievement
B. General Tips for Speaking
- Don't worry if the examiner stops you before you have finished everything that you want to say. You and your partner will be given the exact time set out in the test.
- Always speak clearly so that the examiner can hear you and understand what you say.
- Don't worry if you make some grammatical mistakes. That's only a part of the assessment.
- Do NOT prepare sentences or short speeches before the test!! Just react naturally to what your partner and the examiner say to you.
- Do NOT write anything down as part of your preparation for the test. Remember! This is a speaking test.
- In Part 2 and Part 3, the task is written at the top of the page, but if you aren't sure what to do, ask the examiner to repeat the instructions before you start. You can also check what you have to do with your partner.
- Don't try to talk all the time. Don't interrupt your partner while they are speaking. Wait till they have finished.
- Do NOT use slang e.g. I'm a bit pissed off with school. Say something like: I sometimes find school boring
- Last but not least, relax, don't be too nervous and enjoy the experience!
SOURCE: The Official Top Tips for FCE - Cambridge ESOL Examinations - UCLES 2008
