4T Oral exam based on an article

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• vmbo t
• Leerjaar 4

4T Oral Exam 

(based on an article)

Contents

Expectations

Structure Tips

Preparation Tips

Current Affairs Sources

Practice Ideas

How are you scored?

Expectations (belangrijk)

• NOTE: You only get one chance to excel - There is no resit (niet herkansbaar)
• Oral exams take place between 13 t/m 27 March 2025 (to be scheduled)
• Your oral exam will take place during the English Lesson (1-3 per lesson)
• You are expected to bring study materials with you to class and stay in the classroom studying.
• Your oral exam will be based on a newspaper article that you will receive the morning of your oral exam and you are expected to speak for a minimum of 10 minutes about the article
• 
  
• 
  

Suggested structure and tips for preparation

Introduction (1-2 minutes):

For a 10-minute oral exam:

• Introduce the article's title and the source (e.g., BBC, The Telegraph, or New York Times).
• Briefly summarize the topic or issue discussed in the article.
• Mention why you chose this topic or why it’s relevant to current affairs, technology, or society.

Summary of Main Points (3-4 minutes):

• Describe the key arguments or facts presented in the article.
• Identify the main points the author is making, e.g., technological innovation, cultural trends, or social issues.
• Include any supporting evidence from the article, such as statistics, quotes, or examples.

Analysis and Personal Opinion (2-3 minutes):

• Offer your analysis or perspective on the article’s topic.
• Discuss whether you agree or disagree with the author’s view and explain why.
• Highlight any aspects that you find particularly interesting, surprising, or controversial.

Conclusion (1 minute):

• Summarize your main points.
• Briefly discuss the potential future implications of the topic, if relevant (e.g., how it might impact society or a particular industry).
• End with a final thought or question that you reflect on/answer.

Preparation and Practice

Practice Tips

• Grammar and Vocabulary: Practice using varied vocabulary related to the topic (e.g., if discussing technology, use terms like "innovation," "disruption," "sustainability"). Focus on proper grammar structures, especially with complex sentences.
• Pronunciation and Fluency: Practice reading aloud to ensure clarity and fluency. Record yourself and listen to improve pronunciation and pacing.

Current Affairs Sources

In addition to BBC, The Telegraph, and New York Times, you can explore:

• The Guardian (UK)
• The Independent (UK)
• CNN (US)
• Al Jazeera (International)
• Reuters (International)
• National Geographic (for earth/culture topics)

Staying updated on global events, technological trends, or cultural news will help prepare you for various possible topics.

Article Topics

Topics range from 

• current affairs and general news
• technology
• innovation
• travel
• art
• culture
• earth
• sports

Practice Ideas

• Pick an article each week on different topics (e.g., tech, sports, culture, etc.).
• Summarize the article first, then analyze it.
• Practice presenting the information to a friend or family member.
• Focus on speaking naturally, but with clear articulation.
• Practice answering potential questions that may come up 

How are you scored

Speaks for minimum 10 minutes about the article and....

• Vocabulary (10%): common and low level vs extraordinary and high level vocab
• Grammar (10%): few vs many errors
• Fluency (10%): speaks slowly and unconfidently vs moderate rate and confidently
• Pronunciation (10%): words often mispronounced vs few mispronunciations
• Listening (10%): Misunderstands prompts/questions vs understands and responds appropriately
• Article content (50%): Structures content well (intro, body conclusion). Understands and interestingly relates this content. Uses the article as a resource - not to read from. Has an opinion and can relate/reflect on this. All content related during oral exam is correct.

Vragen?

Let's practice