In a speaking exam, you must talk at a decent pace in order to receive a good rating for fluency. It's your responsibility to prove this to the examiner, but you don't have to talk swiftly the entire time. Adjust the following speed range:
1. Slow down your speaking speed when you:
- want to stress something,
- reach a challenging section, or are unsure of what to say
- use high-level vocabulary to draw the examiner's attention
2. Increase your speaking speed when you:
- are providing less crucial information or,
- are at ease discussing the subject.
3. Try using redundant language
Using words like "oh, well, actually, you know" that have no real significance is known as redundant language. Studies reveal that whereas non-native speakers seldom ever employ redundant language, native speakers do. Utilize it to become more like a native!
4. Use punctuation as pauses
We utilize punctuation when we speak. Pauses are the equivalent of punctuation in written language when used in spoken language. They direct the audience. There is a brief silence to indicate the addition of a clause. An extended silence punctuated by a gasp denotes a novel concept. Additionally, a lengthier silence indicates a shift in subject.
Comma= short pause
Full- stop= longer pause with a breath of air
Paragraph= even longer pause