Preliminary English Speaking Flashcards

In the PET speaking test Part 2, you are asked to describe a photograph. Which approach is most effective?

Answer: Describe what you see using present continuous tense and spatial language

Using present continuous tense (e.g., 'A woman is walking...') and spatial phrases (in the background, on the left) demonstrates range and fluency.

A candidate says: 'There is a man. He is old. He sits.' How could this be improved for the PET speaking test?

Answer: Link ideas with connectors and add detail: 'There is an elderly man who appears to be sitting on a park bench'

Combining sentences with relative clauses and adding descriptive detail shows a higher level of spoken English.

During the PET speaking test, your partner gives a very short answer. What should you do?

Answer: Ask your partner a follow-up question to keep the conversation going

Asking a follow-up question shows interactive communication skill, which is a key marking criterion.

Which phrase is most appropriate for politely disagreeing with your partner in the PET speaking Part 3 discussion?

Answer: I see your point, but I think...

'I see your point, but I think...' acknowledges your partner's view while politely introducing your own opinion.

In PET speaking, what does 'interactive communication' mean?

Answer: Initiating and responding in conversation, asking for clarification, and keeping the exchange going

Interactive communication refers to the ability to engage in genuine two-way dialogue, not just monologue.

You don't understand the examiner's question. What is the best response?

Answer: Say 'I'm sorry, could you repeat that, please?'

Politely asking for repetition is a natural communicative strategy and does not penalize your score.

Which sentence uses appropriate hedging language for the PET speaking test when you are unsure?

Answer: It looks as though the woman might be waiting for a bus.

Hedging phrases like 'it looks as though' and 'might be' show you can speculate appropriately when you are uncertain.