The Speaking Test: Format And Criteria
Overview
The speaking test is the one part of your IGCSE where you do not write a word. You sit with an examiner, you talk, and a recording is made. It feels less like an exam than the reading and listening papers, and that is exactly why candidates underprepare for it. The good news is that the test has a fixed, friendly shape and a clear set of things the examiner is listening for, so you can walk in knowing precisely what earns the marks.
This note shows you the shape of the test, how long each part lasts, and which part is actually assessed. It then unpacks the four things the assessor rewards: how you structure the conversation, the vocabulary you reach for, how accurate your grammar is, and how far you develop your ideas. Know these before you sit down and you can prepare with the criteria in mind, not just hope for the best.
Objectives
- Understand the structure of the speaking test and how long each part lasts.
- Understand how structure, vocabulary, accuracy and communication are marked.
- Know what an assessor rewards so you can prepare with the criteria in mind.
Lesson Note
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Lesson Evaluation
Congratulations on completing the lesson on The Speaking Test: Format And Criteria. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.
You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
- Which part of the speaking test is actually assessed? A. The examiner reading the instructions B. The warm-up conversation C. The topic-card discussion D. The moment you are given the card Answer: C
- How many marks is the speaking test worth in total? A. 30 marks B. 40 marks C. 50 marks D. 60 marks Answer: B
- Which of these is NOT one of the four assessor scales? A. Structure of the conversation B. Speed of delivery C. Vocabulary D. Language accuracy Answer: B
- An examiner asks 'Do you enjoy reading?'. Which reply is most likely to score well? A. 'Yes.' B. 'No, not really.' C. 'Yes, especially adventure stories, because they let me imagine places I have never been.' D. 'Reading is good.' Answer: C
- Why is delivering a memorised speech a poor strategy in the discussion? A. It uses too many words B. The test is a two-way conversation, so the speech may ignore what the examiner actually asked C. Speeches are not allowed to be in English D. It always contains grammar errors Answer: B
Available on the Green Bridge App
Download the Green Bridge CBT app on your phone or computer to access full lesson notes, practice questions, and more.
Available on the Green Bridge App
Download the Green Bridge CBT app on your phone or computer to access full lesson notes, practice questions, and more.
Recommended Books
Practice Mock Questions
Want to practice mock questions on The Speaking Test: Format And Criteria? Download the Green Bridge CBT app to access mock questions and full practice assessments for this topic.
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