C1 Advanced (CAE) Speaking Part 2 can feel challenging because you need to respond to photographs that you see during the test. In this article, we explain the format of the task and share practical tips to help you prepare.
Overview of C1 Advanced (CAE) Speaking Part 2
Candidates usually take the C1 Advanced Speaking test in pairs, although groups of three may be used when necessary. In Part 2, each candidate receives three photographs and chooses two to compare. You speak for about one minute without interruption and respond to the prompt shown above the photographs. The interlocutor then asks the other candidate a brief question about your photographs, and that candidate responds for about 30 seconds. Your partner receives a different set of three photographs and completes the same type of task. You then answer a brief question about your partner’s photographs.
Each set of three photographs is connected to a task focus. For example, official sample tasks include people attending special events and people learning in different ways. Focus on relevant similarities and differences between the two photographs you choose, then address the prompt with reference to both photographs.
Tips & Techniques to Increase Your C1 Advanced Speaking Part 2 Score
The following tips can help you address the task clearly and use the available time effectively.
Tip 1: Choice of Pictures
As mentioned earlier, you need to choose two out of three photographs. Make your choice promptly. A short pause to gather your thoughts is acceptable, but a long pause leaves you with less time to demonstrate your speaking skills. Select photographs that you can compare clearly and discuss confidently.
Tip 2: Take Time Developing Ideas
Once you have selected the photographs, take a few seconds to analyze them. Identify relevant similarities and differences, consider the prompt, and organize your ideas. Do not spend too long preparing, as you only have about one minute for your long turn.
Tip 3: Stick to the Selected Pictures
Keep your answer focused on the two photographs you selected and the prompt you were given. Avoid shifting your attention to the third photograph. Relevant ideas and clear organization will help you produce a stronger response.
Tip 4: Give Equal Time to Both Pictures
Try to give both photographs sufficient attention. Rather than describing each photograph separately, compare them throughout your answer. Use linking words and phrases such as while, whereas, in contrast, and on the other hand to connect your ideas and highlight similarities or differences.
Tip 5: Avoid Simply Explaining Pictures
You are not expected to simply describe what you can see in the photographs. You should compare the two photographs and respond to the prompt. Depending on the question, you may need to speculate about reasons, feelings, challenges, or possible outcomes. Make sure your ideas remain relevant to both photographs.
Refer back to the prompt as you speak. This will help you avoid drifting into unrelated details or spending too much time describing only one photograph.
Tip 6: Don’t Stop Talking
Try to keep speaking until the examiner says, “Thank you.” If you lose your train of thought, return to the prompt. You can compare another feature of the photographs, give a reason for your opinion, speculate about the situation, or paraphrase a word that you cannot remember. Avoid using unrelated filler sentences.
Tip 7: Talking About Your Partner’s Pictures
After your partner’s long turn, the examiner will ask you a brief question about your partner’s photographs. You will have about 30 seconds to respond. Listen carefully and answer the question directly. You may refer to or build on your partner’s ideas when relevant. Remember that candidates are assessed individually, not in comparison with each other.
Tip 8: The Lifesaver Tip
If the topic feels unfamiliar, do not switch to an unrelated subject or rely on description alone. Stay focused on the prompt. Compare the two photographs, speculate where appropriate, and explain your ideas using the language you know. You can also connect the topic logically to something more familiar, provided that you still answer the examiner’s question.
The Speaking test assesses your language skills, not your specialist knowledge of a topic. A simple, relevant, and clearly organized response is more effective than an unrelated description.
We hope that this article on CAE Speaking Part 2 was helpful. Make sure to also check out the Available Programs for International Students!
