8.2. Speaking on Exam Day
Walk through the interview as it will actually happen.
The short version
Speaking may be on a different day from the other papers.
Bring the ID you booked with.
The test is recorded. That is routine.
The first scripted exchange is not marked.
What the day looks like
The test is 11 to 14 minutes with one examiner. The cards below are what each part asks of you. The steps are the habits that get you from the door to the last question.
Three or four sentences. Accept being moved on.
One minute of notes. Speak until you are stopped.
A view and a reason. Attempt every question.
On the day
- 1ID ready
The same passport or card you used to register.
- 2The opening is scripted
Your full name and your ID. Those few words give the examiner nothing to rate. No hometown speech yet.
- 3The recorder is on
Every Speaking test is recorded so that the marking can be checked later. It is not there to judge you. Ignore it.
- 4Answer this question
If the first sentence would fit a different question, it is too general.
- 5When you are stopped, stop
Then answer the next question. The clock ended the turn, not your answer.
Quiz time1 question
Check
Choose the decision that matches the rules of the test.
Halfway through a Part 3 answer you realise you have misunderstood the question. What is the best move?
Recap
Take the same ID you used to book.
The recorder is normal. Ignore it.
Everything from the first real question counts.
Next: quick answers to the questions that come up most.