Speaking skills
A friendly conversation
- The speaking test is a friendly conversation, not a trap.
- Answer the question, then add a little more.
- A one-word answer is too short.
Explore
Dead end or door opener?
An extended answer gives the examiner something to pick up - a one-word answer closes the door.
Practice
Your answer in the speaking test should be…
Answer, then develop it a little.
Interact well
- Listen and respond to what the examiner says.
- If you are not sure, ask: 'Sorry, could you repeat that?'
- Take turns naturally, as in a real chat.
Answer, then add more: a reason and an example make a full turn
Practice
It is fine to ask the examiner to repeat a question.
Yes — a polite request for repetition is fine.
Develop and speak clearly
- Develop your ideas with reasons and examples.
- Speak clearly — better clear than fast.
- Forgot a word? Say it another way.
Practice
If you forget a word, say it ___ way.
Paraphrasing keeps the conversation going.
Practice
Write one full sentence (not just a few words) describing your hometown.
Example: 'My hometown is a busy city with great food and friendly people.'
Practice
Match the repair phrase to the moment you need it.
Repair phrases keep you talking — silence is the only real mistake.
Grow an answer in three beats
- Examiner: "Do you enjoy sport?" — one word ("Yes.") ends the chat.
- Three beats: point → reason → example.
- "Yes, especially basketball, because I love team games — we play every Friday after school."
- Three beats fill twenty confident seconds, with no rambling.
Key idea
- It is a friendly conversation — say more than one word.
- Listen, respond, and take turns.
- Develop ideas; speak clearly, not fast.