Speaking
Part 4
B2 First Exam
In this section:
An overview and strategies for completing Part 4 of B2 First Speaking
B2 First Speaking Part 4
Part 4
Duration: 4 minutes
You have to talk about the topics from part 3 in more detail with your partner.
The final part of the exam is a discussion about open-ended questions. The questions will be related to the topic discussed in part 3. The idea is to have a discussion with your partner about the questions until the exam ends.
Process
Either you or your partner will be asked a question. Respond to the question and give your opinion. Then ask your partner what they think. You don’t have to do this last step - if you don’t, the examiner will do it, but it’s better to be proactive and simply ask them yourself. Then, discuss the question with the other candidate(s) until you either run out of things to say, or out of time. The examiner will ask more questions as needed.
Remember, when answering, try to:
Answer the question directly
Give a reason
Give an example (if there’s time)
Remember not to monopolize the conversation. Ask your partner what they think. Have a good conversation!
Tips
The questions in part 4 are not written down, so you have to listen carefully. If you don't understand the question, ask the examiner to repeat it. You can also ask the examiner to give the meanings of words you don't understand. However, they can not explain or rephrase entire questions.
Look at whoever is speaking (the examiner when they give you the question; your partner when they respond)
Remember to expand on your answers. If you don't, the examiner will ask for more details. However, don't make your contributions too long; you will lose parts for dominating the conversation.
Ask your partner questions, and invite them to respond to what you've said.
Be interested in what your partner says. Agree or disagree with them as in part 3. There are no right or wrong answers, only good or bad conversations.
Try to vary your vocabulary.
After the exam:
When the exam is over, say goodbye and then leave the room.
Do not ask the examiners how you did; they cannot tell you.
Also be respectul and don't start speaking in other languages until you've exited the room.