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Preparing for the Oxford Test of English Speaking – what to focus on

Oxford University Press ELT

The Oxford Test of English is an online English test that assesses your skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking. You can take the test to demonstrate your English level, according to the Common European Framework of Reference (or CEFR), e.g. B1, B2, C1 etc. 

The English speaking test takes only 15 minutes, and assesses your ability to communicate clearly and effectively in everyday situations. It is divided into four parts. 

The structure of the English speaking test

Part 1: Interview

This section involves eight questions on everyday topics, designed to help you warm up and get comfortable.

Part 2: Voicemails

You’ll handle two voicemail tasks, each with both spoken and written input.

Part 3: Monologue

You’ll choose two out of four photos to talk about.

Part 4: Follow-up questions

You’ll answer six questions related to your monologue topic.

What are they testing me on in each part of the test?

Each section of the English speaking test evaluates specific aspects of your speaking skills.

Part 1:

Part 2:

Part 3:

Part 4:

How can I prepare for the different parts of the speaking test? 

It’s useful to have expressions you can use in each part of the speaking test, to help prompt you and your ideas. It’s also a good idea to look at example tests so you know what to expect in the exam. 

Part 1 – Interview 

Look at this example test. Think about how you’d answer the questions. 

For example: 2 – I come from Japan, and live in the city of Kyoto; 4 – I like watching different shows on Netflix and YouTube, and I use subtitles so I can listen and read at the same time; 7 – I met my best friend when I was working in my first job in a restaurant, six years ago. We got on with each other straight away and have been friends ever since. 

Part 2 – Leave a voicemail

In this part of the test, it might be useful to have some words and phrases to invite, suggest or respond to someone. 

Part 3 – Monologue 

You can find out more information about part 3 here.

Part 4 – Follow-up questions

Other ways to prepare for the speaking part of the Oxford Test of English 

By understanding the structure of the OTE speaking test and knowing what you’re being tested on, you’ll be well-prepared for the Oxford Test of English and have all the key skills you need to succeed. Remember, it’s not just about learning English – it’s about communicating with confidence!

Read here for more top tips on the speaking test of the Oxford Test of English. 

Activity

Decide if the answers are True (T) or False (F). Then, correct the false statements.

There are 5 parts in the OTE speaking test. T/F
The speaking test lasts 1 hour. T/F
Part 2 requires you to leave or respond to a recorded voice message. T/F
Part 4 requires you to compare photos. T/F
In part 1, you’ll need to talk about personal information. T/F
In part 2, you have no preparation time. T/F
On the other hand … and Contrary to this … are useful expressions for speculating. T/F
From my point of view … and To me … are useful expressions for giving your opinion. T/F

Answers

F – there are 4 parts.
F – it lasts around 15 minutes.
T
F – in part 4 there are six questions on the topic of part 3.
T
F – you have 20 seconds to prepare.
F – these expressions are useful for contrasting.
T

Billie Jago is an ELT writer and teacher trainer specialising in digital learning materials and assessment resources. She has written for various well-known coursebooks, and writes items for high stakes exams such as the PTE, OTE, IELTS and Cambridge. Alongside materials writing, she delivers international teacher training sessions and is the founder of the ELTcpd professional development platform and YouTube channel. She is also the co-founder of the educational consultancy, OtterEducation. 

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