Are you searching for information about Part 1 of the B2 First, formerly known as FCE, Speaking test? You’ve come to the right place. In this article, you’ll learn how this part of the test is conducted and how you can practice answering the questions. The more you practice, the more confident you can become. We also have a list of sample questions you can use to prepare for your exam.
Are you ready to learn with us? Let’s start.
Overview of B2 First (FCE) Speaking Test Part 1
For a pair of candidates, Part 1 lasts about two minutes. For a group of three candidates, it lasts about three minutes. In the full Speaking test, there are always two examiners. Candidates are usually assessed in pairs, but if there is an uneven number of candidates, they may be assessed in a group of three. One examiner conducts the test as the interlocutor, while the other examiner listens and assesses the candidates.
The first part focuses on the candidate’s use of English for general social and interactive purposes, such as introducing themselves and answering questions about their own life. Questions may focus on interests, studies, work, past experiences, present circumstances, and future plans.
In this part of the test, you mainly respond to the interlocutor’s questions. You are not actively required to talk to the other candidate in Part 1, although you should listen carefully. The test starts with simple personal questions to help candidates feel at ease. Try not to worry if you feel nervous at the beginning; focus on answering clearly and naturally.
Sample B2 First (FCE) Speaking Test Part 1 Questions
Initial Questions:
- What is your name?
- Where do you live?
Questions about Your Home Country and Your Present Address:
- Where do you like to spend a free afternoon?
- Tell me something about your home country.
- Have you visited a fascinating place recently?
- Which part of your country would you like to know better?
- What is your favorite festival in your home country?
Questions about Your Everyday Life:
- What do you plan to do this weekend?
- How did you celebrate your last birthday?
- What is your favorite food?
- What is your favorite day of the week?
- What is your favorite time of year?
Questions about Your Work and Education:
- Do you learn new things when you use the internet?
- What job appeals to you the most?
- What were the most important things you learned in primary school?
- What type of work would you like to do in the future?
- Can you remember your first English lessons?
Questions about Your Holidays and Travels:
- Where would you like to spend a holiday in the future?
- Which form of transportation do you prefer when you take a trip?
- Do you plan your holidays, or do you decide what to do spontaneously?
- Have you ever spoken English while traveling?
- Is there a good public transportation system in your country?
Questions about Entertainment:
- Do you go to concerts?
- How much time do you spend watching TV in a week?
- What was the last TV program you watched?
- Do you read newspapers?
- Where do you usually listen to music?
Questions about Your Family and Friends:
- Who is the most important person in your life?
- Who do you spend your free time with?
- Who is most similar to you in your family?
- Tell me about your best friend.
- Would you like to share something about your family?
Questions about Your Free Time:
- Do you like to spend time at home?
- What have you done recently that you found entertaining?
- What is the difference between watching the news on TV and reading it in a newspaper?
- Do you prefer to spend your free time outside or inside?
- Is there a difference between your weekend routine and your weekday routine?
Questions about Sports:
- Do you spend time playing sports?
- What is your favorite sport or game?
- What recreational activity would you like to try?
- What is the most popular sport in your country?
- Do you exercise every week?
Questions about the Future:
- What do you plan to do in the future?
- Would you like to study in the future?
- What do you plan to do next weekend?
- Do you think computers will replace television and newspapers in the future?
- Which country would you like to visit in the future?
Practice Answering the Questions
If you have an English-speaking friend or classmate, you can practice with them. Let the other person ask the questions, and then answer them. Afterward, ask for feedback. If you go to a party or social event with people who speak English, you can also practice answering their questions. People often ask about your hometown, job, studies, and hobbies, so these situations can be excellent opportunities to practice.
You can also ask your teacher to practice with you in class for ten minutes. You could do this as a speed-dating-style activity, where you speak with one student for two minutes and then move to another partner. If you don’t have anyone to practice with, you can record your answers on your phone. You can also ask a friend to record a video of you. Watch the recording so that you can notice what you do well and what you need to improve.
How to Pass Part 1 of the FCE Speaking Test
- Expand on your answers. Always try to give complete responses. Very short replies may limit your score.
- Try to explain why you answered “yes” or “no” to the question.
- Provide examples to support your answer.
- If you don’t understand the question, you can politely ask the examiner to repeat it.
- Use accurate grammar when you answer. For instance, if the interlocutor asks, “Do you enjoy reading?” you should not say, “Yes, I enjoy to read.” A better answer is, “Yes, I enjoy reading.”
- Don’t speak like a robot. When you search for possible questions online, you don’t need to write them down and memorize your answers. You should speak as naturally as possible.
- Remember that the examiners expect you to use language appropriate for an upper-intermediate, or B2, level.
Part 1 of the FCE Speaking test can feel familiar because the questions are similar to conversations you may have in daily life. However, you may still feel nervous when the examiner asks you questions, so it is important to prepare. If you want to perform well, practice answering questions with a friend, classmate, teacher, or family member. If you prefer to practice alone, record yourself and listen carefully to your answers. Keep practicing and do your best.
We hope this article on FCE Speaking Part 1 was helpful. Make sure to check out our Scholarships Page and available courses for international students!
