How to Test Speaking Skills in Japan

110 Part 3: Three speaking test ideas Okay, are you all ready? Here we go with the first take… 5, 4, 3, 2, 1— Begin! Students can now start their timed conversation

Keep time carefully as students record their takes. 3 When the three minutes are up, announce the end of the take: Okay, everyone! Time’s up! Please stop recording. Of course you may want to be a bit flexible about this—instead of a harsh cut off, encourage students to end their thought and then do a quick closing: Oh! Look at the time! I have to go. See you later! Al ternatively, if your timer app has an alarm sound, that can work well as a signal to wrap up the conversation This stop-and-start process is something you’ll need to practice with everyone ahead of time to make sure it works smoothly on test day 4 Start your timer again and give everyone five minutes to listen to and evaluate their take 5 When the 5-minute reflection period ends, repeat Steps 2~4 again two more times 6 After the third and final take, hand out the transcription paper and get the students going on this phase of the exam Remind ing them of key transcription conventions you’d like to see at this point would be helpful