It is an open secret that fluency is a prerequisite to scoring good in PTE speaking test. It is a misconception that only non native speakers are prone to fluency issues. Truth be told, we have seen numerous native speakers who scored well in all sections of the PTE test, but failed miserably in the speaking test. Reason? Fluency !
There are plenty of reasons that hamper fluency such as usage of ums and ahs, being unable to pronounce certain words or losing your course of thought. Using loads of ums, ahs and other redundant sounds is one of the primary reasons that even native English speakers fail the PTE speaking test.
What’s Fluency?
According to the PTE scoring guide, fluency is defined as a smooth, effortless and natural paced delivery of speech. To put it simple, an even rate of speech without any repetitions, hesitations or fillers is deemed as fluent.
This post will offer key insights into what is expected of you during the speaking test and how to achieve good fluency.
Tips # 1- Watch Out For Those Fillers
We use a lot of fillers while speaking in our everyday life and we cannot get rid of the habit in the exam either. Speech cluttered with fillers is not considered fluent by computer based PTE speaking test. The key is to watch your fillers while speaking to people in your day to day life as well.
Tip # 2- Analyze Your Verbal Behavior
Make a note of the words that often precede before your fillers. Observe if you use fillers because you are unable to pronounce certain words correctly and get stuck while using them. Fillers also creep in when you lose the course of thought. So, be attentive while speaking and watch your rate of speech.
Tip # 3- Practice To Speak Slow
Fast rate of speech is often mistaken for fluency. Speaking fast clutters the message and makes it difficult to understand. Practice speaking slow in your everyday life. Slow down your rate of speech and link your thoughts with composure. Many test takers with a good command over grammar and a range of vocabulary fail the PTE test because of their fast rate of speech. Rate of speech goes up because of the stress level as well as it is a natural reaction to stress. Take deep breaths, if you feel stressed and practice again.
Consult With Our PTE Experts
If you think you have fluency issues or you need a PTE expert to assess your speaking skills, drop us a line or call us at 079 6682 6682.
