Practice makes perfect: PET PAPER 3: SPEAKING

The paper contains four parts. The standard format is two candidates and two examiners. One examiner acts as interlocutor and manages the interaction by asking questions and setting up the tasks. The other acts as assessor and does not join in the conversation.

Marks

Candidates are assessed on their performance thoughout the test. There are a total of 25 marks for Paper 3, making 25% of the total score for the whole examination.

These are the four parts in detail:

PAPER 3 : SPEAKING
PART	TASK TYPE AND FORMAT	FOCUS	TIMING
1	Each candidate interacts with the interlocutor. The interlocutor asks the candidates questions in turn, using standardised questions.	Giving information of a factual, personal kind. The candidates respond to questions about present circumstances, past experiences and future plans.	2-3 minutes
2	Simulated situation. Candidates interact with each other. Visual stimulus is given to the candidates to aid the discussion task. The interlocutor sets up the activity using a standardised rubric.	Using functional language to make and respond to suggestions, discuss alternatives, make recommendations and negotiate agreement.	2-3 minutes
3	Extended turn. A colour photograph is given to each candidate in turn and they are asked to talk about it for approximately a minute. Both photographs relate to the same topic.	Describing photographs and managing discourse, using appropriate vocabulary, in a longer turn.	3 minutes
4	General conversation. Candidates interact with each other. The topic of the conversation develops the theme established in Part 3. The interlocutor sets up the activity using a standardised rubric.	The candidates talk together about their opinions, likes/dislikes, preferences, experiences, habits, etc.	3 minutes