Introduction:
Speaking in English is usually one of the most challenging parts of certification exams, generating some fear in students. When faced with a language that we are not yet fluent in, it is common to make mistakes, experience difficulties finding the right words, or struggle with pronunciation. In this article, we present valuable speaking tips that will help you gain confidence and overcome the typical obstacles of speaking in a new language.
Chapter 1: Strategies to Improve your Speaking in English
To boost your speaking skills, it is essential to combine speaking exercise with listening practice. Here are some effective strategies:
- Listen to English Regularly: Immerse yourself in the language by listening to music, podcasts, series and movies in English. Choose audiobooks to familiarize yourself with the sounds of the language and intonation, making it easier to retain vocabulary and understand the connection between words when speaking.
- Take advantage of opportunities to speak: Actively participate in classes, interact with tourists in your city to practice in everyday situations and establish regular conversations in English with friends or fellow students. Practicing before the exam, especially the main topics, will prepare you to face the test with confidence.
Chapter 2: Tips for the English Oral Exam
In addition to taking advantage of every opportunity to speak English, some specific tips will be helpful during the exam:
- Choose a Family Topic: Select the exam topic that is most comfortable and familiar to you. Consider your prior knowledge, the interest it generates in you and if you have already practiced it. Taking advance notes on the topic before speaking can be beneficial.
- Base Text Analysis: If a text is provided as the basis for your monologue, read it carefully, identifying key points. Think about what information will be most relevant or interesting to the recipient.
- Participate in Role-play Dialogues: In dialogues, ask your partner's opinion, show interest in their ideas and express yours. Develop arguments during a discussion, adding additional points to initial ideas.
- Take Pauses When Speaking: Avoid rushing when speaking. Breathe, speak slowly and thoughtfully. This practice, valid for all levels, allows you to think carefully about the words you want to express.
- Use Known Words: At initial levels, such as B1, use vocabulary that you already know. Avoid unfamiliar words in the exam and use familiar expressions. If you forget a word, explore synonyms or antonyms to convey the idea.
- Correct your mistakes: If you notice a mistake when speaking, correct it without hesitation. The correction demonstrates linguistic awareness and improves the quality of your oral expression.
- Maintain Presence in the Exam: Make eye contact with the examiner, making sure they understand you. Ask for clarification if necessary, replicating the dynamics of a real conversation.
Chapter 3: Exercises to Improve Speaking in English
Some practical exercises can significantly contribute to improving your English speaking skills:
- Practice as a Couple: Do conversation exercises with a partner to strengthen dialogue skills. If you don't have a partner, sing English songs, repeat dialogues from videos, or record and listen to your own voice to improve pronunciation.
- Replicate Dialogs from Series or Videos: Play dialogues from videos or series to internalize intonations and vocabulary. Try focusing on fluency first, then precision, if you need to slow down.
- Custom Recording: Record yourself speaking and listen to the recording to identify areas for improvement in pronunciation and intonation.
With Native English, we offer you the tools and guidance necessary to perfect your English speaking skills. Through effective strategies, practical tips, and dynamic exercises, we invite you to conquer the art of communicating with confidence in a new language. Get ready to excel in your speaking exam with success!