C1 Advanced Speaking Part 4
On this page we take a look at Part 4 of the C1 speaking exam and how to give a better performance. C1 Part 4 topics are based on the topic in the Part 3 task.
How It Works
Some sample questions on the topic of decisions
- Is it best to make decisions alone or to turn to others for advice?
- Why do you think some people find it harder to make decisions than others?
- Can you have too much information when trying to make a decision?
- Which is most important in making personal decisions, facts or instinct?
- Some people think that governments should refer certain decisions to the public to vote on. Is this a good idea?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages to decisions which come from brainstorming?
Examiner instructions
Examiner : Candidate A, Is it best to make decisions alone or to turn to others for advice?
Examiner : What do you think/Do you agree Candidate B?
Examiner : Candidate B, Why do you think some people find it harder to make decisions than others?
Examiner : What do you think/Do you agree Candidate A?
Tips for a better Advanced Part 4 speaking performance
Tip #1: Treat It Like a Presentation
Think of each response you give as a mini-presentation. Practise giving answers that last between 30 seconds to 1 minute. Focus on the type of language you’ll use and how to link your ideas smoothly.
Tip #2: Relax and Be Natural
This is a great chance to demonstrate your language skills, but aim to do so naturally. Choose language that fits your response. Before the exam, explore alternative words and expressions to say the same thing. Expanding your vocabulary on specific topics will help improve your performance.
Tip #3: Build on Your Partner’s Ideas
Listen carefully to your partner’s responses and use them to shape your own. Referring back to what they said shows active listening and your ability to develop a conversation—an important skill at this level.
Tip #4: Stay Focused on the Topic
Answer the question directly and keep the discussion on track. If your partner misunderstands the question, gently steer the conversation back to the correct topic.
Tip #5: Collaborate
If the question is addressed to both of you, ensure your partner has the opportunity to share their opinion. Listen carefully for cues that they have finished speaking, but avoid interrupting.
Part 4 Answer - example
Why do you think some people find it harder to make decisions than others?
I know there are some people who get very anxious when they have to make decisions, even very simple ones but I actually think it depends what type of decisions you’re talking about . I mean some people are very effective in work and perform extremely well and they have no problems at all making decisions about business or business-related activities.
I think it’s when we come to decisions that affect us personally they become more difficult. For starters, you’re thinking of the direct effect on you or on others. This can produce doubts sometimes, something you find less in a work environment so much because there are generally plenty of people you can share your ideas with. So, in your personal decision-making you can end up unable to make your mind up.
One final thought
At this stage of the speaking test candidates are generally relaxed and there are about four minutes of the 15 minutes remaining . In addition, part 4 is the best opportunity to show your ability. It’s also where you can demonstrate how you can contribute to a discussion. After all it is an interactive examination.
Learn more about other parts of the Advanced Speaking Test
CAE Speaking Part 1
Questions in this part of the test are very general
CAE Speaking Part 2
Compare two out of three pictures in Part 2
CAE Speaking Part 3
In Part 3 discuss each topic together
Advanced Speaking
See our guide to the speaking test
CAE Speaking Part 3
In Part 3 discuss each topic together
Advanced Speaking
See our guide to the speaking test