Understanding OET Speaking Assessment
The Occupational English Test (OET) is an English language proficiency test for healthcare professionals. The OET Speaking sub-test comprises four sub-tests that contain the OET. The English communication skills test for healthcare is 20 minutes long and includes a friendly conversation and two role-playing scenarios.
The introductory conversation typically takes around three minutes to complete. In this part, the interlocutor (who conducts the test) will ask you questions about your background, experience in your chosen profession, and reasons for taking the OET.
Understand the Test Format
Familiarize yourself with the structure and requirements of the OET Speaking sub-test:
The OET Speaking sub-test consists of a face-to-face conversation with an interlocutor.
It lasts approximately 20 minutes.
The assessment has two parts: warm-up and consultation. During warm-up, you’ll chat briefly to build a connection.
In the Consultation phase, you will engage in a role-play activity based on a healthcare professional scenario.
Practice speaking English regularly
Practice speaking English more often to gain confidence. Try talking with friends, family, or colleagues. Recording yourself and listening to the playback is also a helpful practice method.
Find a speaking partner. Practice speaking English with someone who can offer feedback, like a friend, family member, colleague, or tutor.
Join a conversation group. Join conversation groups, online or in-person, to practice English with other learners.
Pay attention to your pronunciation
Make sure you are pronouncing words correctly and clearly. You can find resources to help you improve your pronunciation online or in libraries.
Use Pronunciation Resources: Utilize online resources, pronunciation apps, or language learning platforms that offer pronunciation exercises and interactive activities. These resources often provide audio examples and guides for correct pronunciation.
Engage in Conversations: Regularly converse with native English speakers or language exchange partners. Focus on speaking clearly and ask for feedback on your pronunciation. Take note of any recurring issues and work on improving them.
Use a variety of vocabulary
Don’t be afraid to use new words; ensure you know how to use them correctly. You can find lists of medical vocabulary online or in textbooks.
Learn Word Families: Expand your vocabulary by learning word families and related words. For example, if you learn the noun “efficiency,” also familiarize yourself with the adjective “efficient” and the adverb “efficiently.”
Focus on Domain-Specific Vocabulary: For the OET Speaking sub-test, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with medical or profession-specific vocabulary. Consult medical dictionaries, textbooks, or online resources to acquire relevant terminology.
Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas
This will help your ideas flow more smoothly and make it easier for the assessors to follow your thought. You can find lists of linking words and phrases online or in textbooks.
Add Information: To introduce additional information, use linking words and phrases like “in addition,” “furthermore,” “moreover,” “besides,” or “additionally.” These connectors help you expand on your ideas and provide supporting details.
Express Cause and Effect: To demonstrate cause and effect relationships, use linking words like “because,” “due to,” “consequently,” “as a result,” or “therefore.” These connectors help you explain the reasons behind your statements or outcomes.
