CAMBRIDGE EXAMS

EXAMS PRACTICE
SPEAKING

What you need to know about the KET Speaking Test

  • There are two parts to the KET Speaking Test
  • Two candidates take the test together
  • There are two examiners in the room
  • The test takes 8-10 minutes
There are two examiners in the room. One examiner manages the test, he or she is the one explaining what to do, asking the questions, and giving out the materials. The second examiner just sits and listens. He or she does not participate in the test. Both examiners are assessing your English.
Remember: the format of the test is always the same. There won’t be any surprises.

Part 1: 5-6 mins
The examiner asks you questions. You answer them. The questions are about you, your family, your job or studies and where you live. You will be asked to spell a word – usually your name.
Some examples:
• What’s your name?
• Where do you live?
• Why are you learning English?
• What do you usually do at the weekend?
• What sports do you like?
• Tell me about your family*


Part 2: 3-4 mins
Two candidates take the KET Speaking test together. The examiner gives you a sheet, usually with a picture and some information. You ask and answer questions with the other candidate, not the examiner. These questions are not personal; they are about the information on the sheet. You take turns, Student A asks the questions. Student B answers the questions. There is a new sheet of paper. Student B asks the questions. Student A answers. To help you making the questions, there are question words on the sheet.
You will need to know how to use the following question words:
What, When, Where, Who, Why, How.
Remember - you are not in a competition with the other student. Having two candidates, not one allows for more conversation. If there are only 3 candidates in total, the three take the test together. You will never have to take the test alone.