At level A2 the Spoken Exam has four segments. The speaking test normally has two applicants, you and your partner. Both will be taking part in the text one after the other. In this article, we will be seeing all the four segments of the a2 English test in detail.
Segment One – Interview
First, you’ll get an introduction question (e.g. ‘how are you?’ ‘Where are you studying?’), then 3 more questions on a specific subject. Each of these three questions should be answered briefly.
Tips
Listen to every question carefully. Answer with your own words to the query. Don’t just say what you’ve heard before. As you’re studying for the test, practice telling your family, interests, school or work, eating and drinking habits, daily activities, travel, home, weather, etc.
Segment Two – Picture Sequence
This task of the a2 English test begins before you get into the examination room. You get the board in another space with a series of photos on it. Each series has four images and it tells a story. You get to prepare for ten minutes. You should make notes, then take those notes into the exam room with you. You can use a non-electronic dictionary, as well. You’ll be hearing your version of what the people are doing in the picture sequence in the exam room. You can help with your notes, of course, but don’t read from them.
Tips
- Do not write complete sentences about the picture in the planning house, because you can’t read them out. Alternatively, write down some keywords and phrases for each photo. These keywords will allow you to talk freely; your notes will allow you to think about the story and what’s going on in each picture.
- You can use a dictionary in the planning room but it takes a long time to look up words. Look just for words you like you need a lot. You use words you already know best.
- The principal grammar structures in this are the present tense continuous and simple present.
- In the last weeks before the test, one perfect way to prepare for this challenge is to talk to yourself in English and explain scenes you see around you on the street, at home, at work, at school, or elsewhere. “Tell yourself” what you can do, what the people you see do, and why they do those things, too.
Segment three – Transactional Dialogues
In this activity of the a2 English test, you will have 3 briefs, casual interactions with the examiner: the examiner will always be the friend in the role-play. You’ll get a role card for each conversation to tell you what to say. You speak to the examiner after you have read the report. The interviewer must tell you regarding the end of the discussion. Your friend and you will take turns to do the cards.
Tips
- Carefully read every card, twice if need be. Make sure you understand the situation, then decide what the role card wants you to say, and how you want to say.
- Practice with your relatives
- You can use polite informal language as well.
Segment four – Communication Dialogues
With your partner, you do the role-play job. You get a card with four questions in notes on it; your partner’s notes contain four pieces of information on her card. You are asking the questions; she answers in full sentences. And there’s another role-play where your partner asks the questions and you respond to them.
Tips
Spend more time with your partner and practice together. This will help you to remember your practice in the interview.
