November 25, 2011
University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations (Cambridge ESOL) has launched a new, interactive web-based learning solution to help students prepare for the speaking part of the Cambridge English: First exam.
Cambridge ESOL’s Online Speaking Practice incorporates video footage of a real Cambridge ESOL examiner asking authentic exam questions. Students can record and share their answers with teachers and friends – and then compare their responses to videos of students giving sample answers.
“Online speaking preparation gives students a really great opportunity to practice their speaking skills," explains Cambridge ESOL’s Christine Nuttall. “Speaking is a very complex skill and often presents many challenges for the learner. We’ve used videos of real examiners to create as authentic an experience as possible for people preparing for the speaking test of Cambridge English: First.”
Online Speaking Practice covers the four different parts of the Cambridge English: First speaking test. It includes feedback on sample answers, useful tips from the examiner and information on how speaking tests are assessed on exam day. Cambridge English: First is at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages – an internationally recognised benchmark of language ability. Christine Nuttall explains:
“Cambridge English: First is an ideal exam for people who need to use everyday written and spoken English for work and study purposes. It’s often used as a stepping stone to higher level tests such as Cambridge English: Advanced.”
Cambridge ESOL plan to extend the range of Online Speaking Practice to other Cambridge English exams in 2012.
• Cambridge ESOL website
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