Oral exams

This is an exam where there is a conversation between you and an examiner.

It is often used to test listening and speaking skills in foreign languages.

For instance, it is used in GCSE and 'A' level French or Spanish.

You must understand and answer questions you have not heard before.

The exam may even take place in front of other people.

You can practice and develop your skills for this type of exam.

Use a tape recorder to listen to the sound of your own voice.

Try to work on the way you speak and your pronunciation if necessary.

Practise speaking clearly and slowly in a natural way.

Play back the tape to check that you can be understood.

Listen to tapes or radio broadcasts in the language you are studying.

Oral exams are sometimes used instead of a written paper, if you have missed an exam because of illness.

In this case you will be assessed in an interview, after the illness is over.