Speaking
What PEIC A1 Speaking tests
PEIC A1 Speaking checks simple interaction: introducing yourself, answering questions about daily life, asking for things, and taking part in a short role-play or picture task. The examiner looks for understandable pronunciation, basic grammar, everyday vocabulary, and the ability to keep the exchange going.
Core rules and concepts
- Answer the question asked, then add one short detail: 'I live in Rome. It's near the station.'
- Use memorised but flexible frames: 'Can I have...?', 'I'd like...', 'Sorry, I don't understand. Can you repeat that?'
- Keep turns short and clear; a correct short answer beats a confused long one.
- Use present simple for routines and 'can' for requests and ability.
- If you need thinking time, use a natural phrase: 'Let me see...' rather than silence.
Worked example
Examiner: 'What time do you start work?' Candidate: 'I start at eight o'clock.' Reasoning: the question asks about a routine, so present simple 'start' is correct; 'at eight o'clock' gives the exact time. A one-word answer 'Eight' can be acceptable, but the full sentence shows control and is easier to mark. If the candidate says 'I started at eight' the past tense suggests a finished action, not a daily routine.
Traps that cost marks
- Giving a prepared speech that does not answer the question.
- Using 'I am agree' or 'I have 20 years' instead of 'I agree' / 'I am 20'.
- Staying silent when you do not understand instead of asking for repetition.
- Pronouncing key words so unclearly that the examiner cannot identify them.