Facing FCE Speaking Part

Ask for explanations

If you don't understand what you are meant to do, ask the examiner to explain. For example, you could say: Could you repeat the question, please? I'm sorry, could you explain the meaning of the word .... ? Could you please ask the question in another way?

Use full sentences

Avoid answers which are single words or lists

Finish the task

When you are asked to compare and contrast two photos and to give your personal feelings about them, make sure that you leave some time for explaining your own views. If you are asked to reach a conclusion in the joint task, try to do this within the time you are given.

Keep speaking If you need time to think about something, try to keep speaking rather than remain silent.

You could say things such as:

Please give me a moment while I think about the answer

Let me see ... what do these photographs show?

Shall we start by describing what we see in the pictures?

What is your opinion?

To avoid wasting time, make it clear when you have finished talking. For example, say something like:

That's all I can think of at the moment

Practice before the exam, practice the test with another student (if you already know the other student who will be taking the speaking test with you, ask him/her to practice with you).