The part of the Cambridge Proficiency/CPE speaking exam which most students fear is the one where they have to speak on their own for two minutes.
It is neither easy nor enjoyable. I am a native speaker and a teacher, and even I don't like doing it. However, with practice it does become easier.
To help you do this, do each of the below 10 sample questions. When you do, first give yourself 20 seconds to read and think about the question, then time yourself for 2 minutes while you talk.
Something to remember before you do, you don't have to talk about the 3 things under the question. It is your choice if you do or not.
To hear questions which you are likely to be asked in the first part of the speaking exam and to practise answering them, go to our CPE Speaking Part 1 Questions Practice web page.
What influence does intelligence have on what happens in our lives?
- Work
- Education
- Relationships
What should you do when making decisions?
- Listen to others
- Trust your instincts
- Consider the opinions
How important is it to be yourself?
- For health and well-being
- For relationships
- For being successful
Is change always a good thing?
- Type
- Situation
- Age
Is it ever acceptable to lie to other people?
- The reason
- The topic
- The impact
How important is it to question?
- At work
- In relationships
- Yourself
What are the advantages and disadvantages of getting advice?
- Work
- Education
- Relationships
What are the benefits of having studied at university?
- Intellectual
- Social
- Financial
What responsibilities do companies have to different groups?
- Customers
- Share holders
- Staff
How important is ambition?
- Work
- Education
- Relationships