Speaking
What the paper tests
Speaking lasts about 14 minutes and has four parts, usually with two candidates. Part 1 is an interview; Part 2 is a long turn comparing two photographs and answering a question, with a short response from the partner; Part 3 is a collaborative task; Part 4 is a discussion. Examiners assess grammar and vocabulary range, discourse management (length, relevance, coherence), pronunciation (intelligibility, stress, intonation), and interactive communication (turn-taking, responding, initiating).
Traps to recognise
In Part 2, candidates often describe each photo separately instead of comparing and speculating. You do not need to describe every detail; answer the question on the card. In Part 3, do not monopolise the discussion - the task is collaborative, so invite your partner ('What do you think?', 'Shall we go with that?'). In Part 1, one-word answers give no evidence of range; extend with a reason or example. In Part 4, answer the examiner's question, not the previous candidate's. Memorised speeches sound unnatural and may not answer the question. Silence is worse than a simple paraphrase.
Rule of thumb
For Part 2, use a frame: 'Both photos show..., but the first is..., whereas the second... In the first photo I get the impression..., while in the second... I imagine the people feel... because...' This keeps you talking for the full minute and covers comparison, speculation and opinion. For Part 3, use functional phrases: suggesting, agreeing, disagreeing politely, and reaching a decision.