ILEC Speaking – Part 4

Task Description

What happens in this part?
This part of the test is a discussion. The interlocutor asks both candidates questions related to the topic in Part 3.

How long does it last?
This part lasts about 4 minutes.

What skills are being assessed?
The candidate’s ability to respond appropriately, express opinions and develop the discussion.

Understanding the Task

To understand better how to approach this task, try doing the Part 4 sample task with a partner. Time yourselves and remember to allow your partner an opportunity to speak by asking them for their ideas and suggestions.

Sample Part 4 Task (PDF)

Now look at these questions about how you approached the planning task above and consider your answers.

Things to consider

  1. Why do you think many candidates seem to do well in this part of the test?

  2. Why might candidates sometimes lose their concentration at this stage of the test?

  3. What strategies could candidates use if they can’t think of anything to say when asked a question?

  4. How can candidates show that they have a wide range of grammar and vocabulary?

  5. What should candidates do if they have asked the interlocutor to repeat the question but are still not sure exactly what it means?