Are you or someone you know preparing to take the TOEIC exam? Learn what to expect from the speaking section in today’s blog post.
Even though this section of the exam consists of six parts it takes about 20 minutes. There are eleven questions within this part of the test with each evaluating you on pronunciation, intonation, grammar, vocabulary, content and cohesion. Remember that each section is evaluating a multitude of these skills and not necessarily all of them at the same time. Before we start to look at examples, let’s first explain what each section entails.
Part 1: Reading a Text Aloud
In part one of the test (questions 1 and 2) you will read a text out loud. You will look at the text and have 45 seconds to prepare (during which, I would suggest, you scan it quickly). Then you will have 45 seconds to respond (read the text). This section is all about pronunciation and intonation. Make sure to read slowly and at a natural pace. It may not seem like a long time but a lot can be read in 45 seconds. Go slowly and take a deep breath.
Part 2: Describe a Picture
In the listening part of the TOEIC test you looked at photographs and then heard sentences that described what the photograph showed. In the speaking test you are the person describing.
So, in short, you will look at a photograph and be asked to describe it. You have 30 seconds to prepare. Here’s a tip: Start in one corner of the photograph and work your way slowly clockwise. Start with the sky – is it light or dark? Is it sunset or sunrise? Is it summer or winter? Can you guess where the photograph was taken? You will then have 45 seconds to respond which is a long time so you need to give detail. If you’ve said everything you think you can say then make conclusions. Are they wearing backpacks? Have they been walking? Is somebody studying? Are they at their home? These are the details the examiner is looking for.
Part 3: Responding to Questions
In part three you will be given a scenario, (such as assisting a student/client/customer) and given three questions to answer. Unlike the other parts of the exam you will have no preparation time. Like the other parts you do have a restricted response time – 15 seconds for the first two questions and 30 seconds for the final.
Part 4: Responding to Questions (with provided information)
This section practices your reading in addition to your speaking skills. You will answer questions with the information that is provided to you. Just like the previous section you will have no preparation time and will have a restricted response time – 15 seconds for the first two questions and 30 seconds for the final.
Part 5: Propose a Solution
In part five you will propose a solution. Unlike part four you will not provide this solution based on the information given to you. You will have to make it up yourself. You will listen to a problem (such as a customer complaint) and then offer a solution to the problem. This is as much about thinking as it is speaking. You will have 30 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to respond.
Here are things to consider before responding: Who is calling/writing? Why are they calling/writing? What are they asking for?
When you respond you should include: Who you are and why you’re calling but make sure to repeat the problem. That way the customer knows that their issue has been heard and you understand what they’re experiencing.
When proposing the solution: Think what would suit this person best (a refund, a discount, an apology, etc) in addition to what is most efficient and convenient.
Part 6: Express an Opinion
Here you will be given a familiar topic (climate change, for example) and will be asked to give your opinion about it. You will have an entire minute to respond so as you prepare (you’ll have 30 seconds to do this) make sure to out line your thoughts. Consider: what do you think about this issue? Simply deciding whether you’re for or against something is enough to get you started.
Tips
Take your time
As part two and five states – you need to include a lot of detail to get the top marks. The best way to do this is to take your time. Seconds may not seem like enough time to prepare but in the middle of the exam it will feel like an eternity.
Detail
No detail is too small. Study the photographs and the information offered to you. Use every detail.
Trust your instincts
Sometimes something will stick out in your head as wrong. If you’ve taken the time to study the material before you take the exam then chances are your brain is telling you the right thing. So listen to your brain. Trust your instincts.
Intrepid English TOEIC Exam Preparation Course
Do you have the TOEIC exam coming up? If you found this blog post useful, you’ll love our TOEIC Exam Preparation Course in the Intrepid English Academy. This extensive course covers what to expect in all areas of the exam, and guides you through relevant activities and exam practice. Plus, you can book a one-to-one lesson with an experienced and friendly Intrepid English Teacher to practice with a lesson personalised to your specific needs.
The TOEIC Exam Preparation Course is available to all Intrepid English Members, alongside our library of other self-study courses on IELTS, business English, grammar, pronunciation, and much more.
Not an Intrepid English Member yet? Our memberships start from just £49/month. Read more about our membership options right here.