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This post offers English learners an example of collaborative task (Part 3) and the discussion (Part 4) that are in the B2 FIRST. These are the 3rd and 4th tasks in the speaking exam (HERE) that learners must carry out.
In this part of the exam the two candidates are to speak together about a situation for about two minutes. They should discuss the situation and take into account all of the 5 options provided. In the end they have about one minute to come to a conclusion (agree or disagree HERE). The way this exercise is assessed is simple (see the link for more details HERE).
The interlocutor will describe the task and then the candidates have about 15 seconds to look at the information, then the should debate the topic for about 2-3 minutes. The examiners are not involved in the task and the candidates are to interact independently until the examiner says “thank you”.
EXAMPLE 16
Now, I’d like you to talk about something together for about two minutes.
I’d like you to imagine that you are talking about friendship. Here are some of the ideas you could be thinking about and a question for you to discuss. First you have some time to look at the task.
In which situations is it important to count on true friends?
- During a break-up of a relationship
- When unemployed
- The death of a relative
- For entertainment
- When you need advice
Now, talk to each other about why friends are important in these situations.
……………………………………………………………………………………….
Thank you. Now you have about a minute to decide which is the situation that you need most support from your friends in.
……………………………………………………………………………………….
Thank you.
Discuss the following questions, in order, as appropriate:
- Some people say that is is hard to find a true friend. What do you think?
- Do you enjoy making new friends?
- What is the best way to stay in touch with friends?
- Do you get on best with people who are similar to you?
- Is it important to have a similar sense of humour to your friends?
