SPEAKING | CAMBRIDGE ENGLISH: ADVANCED | PART 4

Discussion – 5 minutes (8 minutes for groups of three)

Part 4 is a continuation of Part 3 and you continue to work with your partner. The
interlocutor will start by aksing a question for you to discuss and will join the
discussion to ask new questions when each question has run its course. At the end of
the test the interlocutor will say, “Thank you. That is the end of the test.”

All the questions are based on the topic from part 3. While CAE Speaking Test Part 3 is
quite structured, you have more freedom in part 4. However, there are some strategies
to keep in mind, and the questions can be quite challenging.

Top Tips

1 Longer exchanges

Ideally, you should try to have a discussion on each question where you both give at
least two or three extended responses. Although you don't have to reach a decision
together or talk about keywords, but you do have to use the same techniques - ask
your speaking partner questions, expand your answers, organise your responses with
linking words etc. Just as in part 3, ask lots of questions and ask for feedback when you
have given your opinion to keep the discussion going.

... don't you agree?

... or do you have a different opinion?
... or maybe you see that differently?
What's your point of view/standpoint?

2 Agree and elaborate

Most candidates tend to agree with each other on most questions. Howeer, this is the
longest and toughest part of the exam. You need to practise elaborating your answers.
Agree and give examples, from personal experience if possible, and try to link your
answers to your partner’s comments. If possible, refer back to something your partner
said earlier.

I totally see your point because, just as you mentioned earlier…

I think you’re absolutely right there. I can give a very good example of that
I fully agree there because I’ve had a similar experience myself…

3 Disagree to extend

A certain amount of disagreement is good as it makes the discussion more interesting

and also prolongs the discussion. Make sure to do this in a friendly way and give
reasons why you are disagreeing.

I see your point, but I think we could also consider…

I mostly agree with you except on one small point…
I think you’re partly right but it could be argued, however, that…
I’m not so sure about that because…

4 Keep it natural

You can answer questions in a more natural way, like you would in everyday
conversation. Build on the rapport that you have probably established with your
partner by now and try to relax and enjoy this part of the exam.

5 Prepare topic areas

The topics can be extremely varied and it is impossible to rehearse answers for the
questions you might be asked on the day. However, it’s a good idea to work on
vocabulary for topics that commonly appear. Here are some common topics with a
possible question:

Tourism:
Some people say tourism does more harm than good. What do you think?
Technology
Should developments in technology be restricted in any way? Why? Why not?
Decisions
Is it best for people to take decisions on their own or take advice?
Pride
Are some forms of pride harmful?
Environment
Do you think enough is being done to prevent traffic congestion?
Time management
Are people too anxious about timekeeping nowadays?
Appearance
To what extent are people too obsessed about their appearance?