The Speaking test takes about 11 to 15 minutes and is conducted like an interview by an examiner who assesses candidates on fluency, coherence, grammar, accuracy, and pronunciation.
The examiner generally conducts the Speaking test in 3 parts and records the entire conversation.
Part 1 of the Speaking test is mainly introduction and the examiner asks general questions to the candidate about his/her family, job, studies, interests, and a wide range of other topics related to the candidate’s introductory information
In part 2, candidates are asked to speak for 1 to 2 minutes on a particular topic for which they get a minute to prepare and make notes. After the candidate has finished speaking, the examiner may ask a couple of questions on the same topic.
In part 3, the examiner engages the candidate in a discussion about abstract issues which are linked to part 2.
Important tips:
- Make sure you arrive 30 to 45 minutes before the scheduled time; this will ensure that you are not hurrying and have enough time to relax before the test
- Maintain eye contact with the examiner as soon as you enter the room.
- Speak slowly, clearly, and politely.
- Avoid frowning or showing anger through your facial expressions.
- Talk to the examiner like you talk to others in a formal manner. Your answers must sound as if you are conversing with the examiner and not giving a speech.
- Listen carefully to the examiner’s question and make sure all questions are answered fully and appropriately.
- It is not necessary to always agree with the examiner’s opinion about a topic; you may disagree and express your opinions politely.
- Expand your answers as much as you can but keep them relevant to the question.
Important words/ phrases for writing task 1 where candidates have to write a report for a graph:
Slide, picked up, levelled off, declining, quite steady, rose, fell, made steady progress, declined, saw good improvement, continued to rise/decline.
