The Speaking Test

The Speaking Test

The test is conducted for individual candidates by a single examiner. It is recorded on tape and re-assessed by another examiner. The test has 3 parts and lasts a maximum of 12 minutes.

Part 1: Interview (4 mins)
This is a face-to-face interview with the examiner where candidates are expected to answer questions about themselves, their work or their studies, and their interests.

Part 2: Presentation (4 mins)
The candidate is given a choice of three topics and has one minute to prepare a short presentation on one of the topics. This is followed by some questions on the presentation.

Part 3: Information Exchange and Discussion (4 mins)
This part involves a simulated situation, which is presented on a task sheet and the candidate and examiner take on roles to carry out a task. The candidate's role will require him/her to take the initiative in the task. This is followed by a short discussion on a related topic.

Assessment
Candidates are assessed by the examiner conducting the test and by another examiner who listens to a recording of the test. They are assessed on:

• how accurately and appropriately they use the language (grammar and vocabulary)
• how well they develop the conversation and organise their ideas
• how fluently they speak
• how comprehensible their pronunciation is
• how positively they contributed to the conversation.