How Speaking Part 2 works
The examiner gives you a cue card with a topic and three or four bullet points, a pencil and paper. You have one minute to make notes, then speak for one to two minutes without interruption. The examiner may ask one or two short follow-up questions before moving on to Part 3, a longer discussion on the same theme.
A simple structure for any cue card
- Open by naming what you’ll describe in one sentence.
- Cover the bullet points in order, adding a detail or short story to each.
- Spend the most time on the final “explain why” point — it’s where you show range.
- Finish with a brief reflection, such as how you feel about it now.
How to practise with sample answers
- Read the sample once, note three phrases you like, then put it away.
- Use the Part 2 speaking timer to prepare for one minute and speak for two, recording yourself.
- Listen back and compare: did you cover every bullet point and keep going for the full two minutes?
- Answer the Part 3 questions out loud to practise extending your ideas.