Thursday, July 18, 2013

MUET Speaking: Introduction



INTRODUCTION

The main aim of MUET Paper 2 is to test the ability of students in speaking the English language. Two tasks are set to gauge the ability of the candidate: an individual presentation and a group discussion. Candidates are assessed on their fluency, command of the language and presented. To do well in this paper, the candidate must speak more in the English language to build confidence and achieve fluency. The candidate should also strive to listen to good spoken English, taking note of pronunciation, word stress and intonation, and also read extensively to build word power and ideas.

PAPER 2: SPEAKING

DURATION
30 minutes

One minute to read instructions and tasks.

Task A
2 minutes to prepare
2 minutes to deliver

Task B
2 minutes to prepare
10 minutes to discuss

INSTRUCTIONS

Four situations given.
One candidate presents one situation.

Task A is carried out first, followed by Task B.


2 PARTS

Task A: Individual Presentation
Task B: Group Discussion

Task A
Listen to others. Take notes of their presentations.

Task B
Maintain or change your viewpoint.
Support or oppose others’ views.

Arrive at a consensus.

ANSWERING STRATEGY

Read situation carefully, analyze task and underline key words.

Jot down points in key words or phrases in sequence.

Introduce main points. Elaborate by giving 2 or 3 reasons, then give conclusion.

Substantiate suggestions and opinions with supporting evidence.


SYLLABUS/TEST SPECIFICATIONS

The MUET exam tests candidates on their ability to speak on or discuss a range of contemporary issues in various fields, such as economics, science and technology, sports, culture, environment, education and health based on the following criteria:

(i)            accuracy
·       Using grammatically correct language
·       Using correct pronunciation, stress and intonation

(ii)          fluency
·       Speaking with confidence and fluency

(iii)         appropriacy
·      Using language appropriate for the intended purpose and audience
·      Using varied vocabulary and expressions
·      Using varied sentence structures
·      Observing conventions appropriate to specific situation

(iv)         coherence and cohesion
·       Developing and organizing ideas
·       Using appropriate markers and linking devices
·       Using anaphora appropriate together with  other cohesive devices

(v)          use of language functions
·       Defining, describing, explaining
·       Comparing and contrasting
·       Classifying
·       Giving reasons
·       Giving opinions
·       Expressing relationships
·       Making suggestions and recommendations
·       Expressing agreement and disagreement
·       Seeking clarification
·       Asking for and giving information
·       Persuading
·       Drawing conclusion
·       Stating and justifying point of view
·       Presenting an argument


(vi)         managing a discussion
·      Initiating
·      Turn-taking
·      Interrupting
·      Prompting
·      Negotiating
·      Closing

(vii)        task fulfillment
·      Presenting relevant ideas
·      Providing adequate content
·      Showing a mature treatment of topic
 
PART OF THE SPEAKING PAPER

In MUET Paper 2, you are required to perform two tasks: an individual presentation and a group discussion. You will be given time to read the instructions and the tasks given. Read the situation carefully and identify key words to help you understand the topic better.

Task A: Individual presentation
·                You are given two minutes to prepare and two minutes to deliver your speech.
·                Organize your text properly.
·                Elaborate on the suggestion or opinion given to you by giving two or three reasons.
·                Provide examples to substantiate your reasons.
·                Make notes as the others present their speeches.

Task B: Group discussion (group of 4)
·                You are given two minutes to prepare.
·                Decide whether you want to maintain or change your view presented in Task A.
·                You are given ten minutes to discuss which suggestion or opinion is the best.
·                In the discussion, eliminate the options by arguing the reasons.
·                Decide which of the four suggestions or opinions is the best.
·                Try to come to a consensus.

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