Cambridge B1 Preliminary Speaking Exam - How to Do Parts 1-2

Summary

In this lesson from Oxford Online English, Gina guides learners through parts one and two of the Cambridge B1 Preliminary speaking exam, detailing essential strategies for success. She emphasizes the importance of full sentences, using various verb tenses, and adding detail to answers. The video highlights how to effectively describe a photograph in part two, advising candidates to start with a general overview, use prepositions, and express opinions. Through practical examples and encouragement to practice speaking, the lesson aims to boost confidence and preparation for the exam, making it a valuable resource for students.

Takeaways

• 😀 The B1 Preliminary exam, previously known as the PET exam, has slight changes introduced in 2020.
• 📖 In part one of the exam, candidates answer basic questions from the examiner, focusing on full sentence responses.
• 🗣️ It's essential to use a variety of verb tenses to enhance responses and demonstrate language proficiency.
• 🔍 When discussing personal experiences, provide detailed answers instead of brief responses to showcase language skills.
• 🤔 If you don't understand a question, it's perfectly acceptable to ask the examiner to repeat it without it affecting your score.
• 🖼️ In part two, candidates describe a photo for one minute, starting with a general overview before moving into details.
• 📏 Use prepositions of place to effectively describe the arrangement of elements within the photo.
• 🧒 Describing people in the photo involves mentioning their appearance, clothing, and actions to create a fuller picture.
• 💭 It's okay to make guesses or give opinions about the scene depicted in the photo to extend your speaking time.
• ⏳ Keep talking until the examiner stops you; you don’t need to cover every detail in your description.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the Cambridge B1 Preliminary speaking exam?

The Cambridge B1 Preliminary speaking exam assesses candidates' ability to communicate in English, focusing on their speaking skills in various contexts.

What are the two parts of the B1 Preliminary speaking exam?

Part one consists of basic questions asked by the examiner, while part two requires candidates to describe a photograph.

How should candidates introduce themselves in part one of the exam?

Candidates should respond in full sentences, such as 'My name is Gina' and 'I live in Milan.'

What types of questions might the examiner ask in part one?

The examiner may ask about the candidate's name, where they live, whether they work or study, and may follow up with additional questions regarding their job or studies.

What advice is given for using verb tenses in answers?

Candidates are encouraged to use a variety of verb tenses, such as present perfect for ongoing experiences and future tense for plans.

What should a candidate do if they do not understand a question?

They should ask the examiner to repeat the question by saying, 'I’m sorry, could you repeat that, please?' or 'Can you say that again, please?'

In part two, how should candidates begin their description of the photo?

Candidates should start with a general description of the photo and what is happening before providing more detailed information.

What strategies can candidates use to talk for a full minute about a photo?

They can describe the people, what they look like, what they are wearing, and what they are doing, as well as giving opinions or making guesses about the scene.

How important are adjectives in the candidates' answers?

Using a range of specific adjectives enhances descriptions and makes answers more engaging, which can positively impact their score.

What should candidates remember regarding their speaking pace?

Candidates should try to start talking as quickly as possible when given the photograph, as there is no thinking time provided.