Here are some general strategies for the Speaking Module.
Do not memorize long answers
If the examiner suspects that your answers are memorized, they will not be assessed. Examiners are trained people and they can easily differentiate between a memorized answer and a spontaneous one.
Be imaginative
What you say is not as important that how you say it. The examiner is not really testing your general knowledge. They only want to assess your ability to speak English naturally. So, speak fluently. Use your imagination and make your speech as interesting as possible.
Use advanced and varied vocabulary
Your vocabulary should be adequate enough to discuss non-personal topics. You should also make an effort to use complex sentences. These are sentences with two or more clauses connected by subordinate conjunctions or relative pronouns. Here is an example: My mother believes that waking up early in the morning is good for health. You will get credit for using a variety of sentence patterns even if you make mistakes. Also, using varied grammar and vocabulary makes your speech more interesting.
Don’t halt for long
If you can’t come up with an answer right away, you can use a filler phrase to buy time. However, if you wait too long before you speak, you will lose marks.
If you need some time before you speak, here are some filler phrases you can use.
- I’ve never thought about this before
- OK, well. Let me see….
- That is a good question!
- Hmm, let me think…
Speak loudly enough
The examiner should be able to hear you and the tape recorder should be able to capture what you are saying. Try to pronounce the words as clearly and correctly as possible.
In part 1, you will only be asked questions about yourself. Don’t feel nervous or threatened. If you do not understand a question, the examiner will repeat it. Likewise, if you express your inability to answer a question, the examiner will change it. If you do not understand the question, feel free to ask for clarification. Answer every question you have been asked. Include examples and other detail. That said, you are not required to give a lengthy sophisticated answer to every question. Include just enough detail. Speak naturally. Try not to sound nervous. Speak to the examiner as if you are speaking to someone you have just been introduced to.
In part 2, you will get about one minute to prepare your answer. Don’t try to write out the entire answer during this time. It is not possible. Instead, just note down key points on a piece of paper. Make sure that your answer addresses all the three bullet points on your task card.
Read the task card carefully. If you misunderstand or misread the topic, your speech may not cover the topic at all. Address each point on the task card in turn. Avoid all irrelevant points.
You can speak for a maximum of two minutes. During this time you have to answer all the three points on the topic card. Keep in mind that you are not timed. Before taking the test, you should know how much you can say in about two minutes. During this time, you should be able to answer all the points on the task card. While preparing for the exam, write down notes and craft speeches that last 1 to 2 minutes. Organize your speech using the points on the card.
In part 3, you will be asked to discuss some abstract topics related to part 2. Fully answer the questions. Use connectors to link your ideas and transitions to move from one idea to another. Give detailed answers but stay on the topic. If you digress, it will affect your score. Make sure that all the points you mention are relevant to the question. If your answers are very short, you will not get high marks.
See also
