Many students worry more about the Speaking paper than any other part of the CAE exam. However, they are often surprised to discover that Speaking becomes one of their strongest papers once they understand the format and have had enough practice.
As a Cambridge English speaking examiner with more than 22 years of experience working with the British Council, I have heard both excellent answers and answers that could have been much more effective. One of the most important things to remember is that the examiner is not trying to catch you out. Part 1 is designed to help you settle into the exam and begin speaking about familiar subjects.
What happens in Part 1?
Part 1 lasts approximately two minutes. The interlocutor—the examiner who speaks to you—asks both candidates questions in turn. The questions are about you, your experiences and familiar aspects of everyday life.
The first question may be something simple, such as:
“Where are you from?”
There is no need to give a long description of your hometown. A brief but developed answer is usually best:
“I’m originally from Sofia, but I’ve been living in Varna for the past five years.”
This gives the examiner enough information and demonstrates a wider range of language without becoming unnecessarily long.
Avoid giving a speech about the history, population and tourist attractions of Varna unless the question specifically asks for this information. An excessively detailed response can sound as though it has been prepared in advance rather than given naturally.
What topics might come up?
You may be asked about familiar topics such as:
These are examples of typical subject areas rather than a list of questions that are guaranteed to appear. Cambridge materials describe Part 1 questions as covering personal information and everyday topics, including studies, leisure, travel and future plans.
You may also be asked to talk about a past experience. For example:
“Tell me about an interesting celebration you have been to recently.”
Similarly, you could be asked about something in the future:
“What are you looking forward to over the next few months?”
It is useful to think of a few genuine experiences and future plans before the exam. However, I would not recommend learning complete answers word for word. Memorised answers often sound unnatural and may not fit the precise question you are asked. Cambridge’s own advice is to respond spontaneously and to extend short answers when appropriate.
How long should my answers be?
Aim to answer the question directly and then add one relevant reason, detail or example. In most cases, two or three sentences will be enough.
For example:
“I enjoy reading historical novels, particularly books set in the twentieth century. I find them interesting because they help me understand how ordinary people experienced important historical events.”
You do not need to give a perfect or highly original answer. The examiner is interested in how clearly, naturally and accurately you communicate your ideas.
My final advice
Preparation is important, but preparation does not mean memorising speeches. Practise answering a wide range of personal questions, extending your ideas naturally and adapting your response to the exact wording of the question.
At English Academy Varna, our experienced teachers and examiners help candidates become familiar with every part of the Speaking test so that they can enter the examination room feeling confident, prepared and ready to perform at their best.
Mark McTaggart
English Academy Director
Have a question for Mark? Send it to us, and it may be answered in a future edition of "Ask Mark".
