Interpersonal Speaking – Conversation
For this section of the test, students receive an outline of a conversation. Students have 1 minute to read the outline before the conversation starts. On average, the student will have to speak a total of 5 to 6 times. Each time, the student will have 20 seconds to input record what they want to say.
To help you with this part of the test, make sure to write down any expression you might use, based on the outline. Once the conversation begins, pay close attention to what the other person is saying. Having good understanding will enable you to answer what is being asked.
If possible and if you feel confident about it, try to use the subjunctive in your responses to show good command of grammar structure. Additionally, make sure not to waste time repeating the questions, try to just answer them.
Tips on How to Score a 5 in Interpersonal Speaking – Open Conversation:
- Make sure to provide correct information, based on what was actually requested.
- Make sure your response is understandable.
- Make sure to use as much vocabulary as you know and that it is appropriate to your response.
- Make sure that your grammar and syntax is correct and varied, with very few errors.
- Make sure that your grammar is consistent with the use of the informal or formal.
- If you feel that you said something that isn’t clear, that you add remarks to make it understandable.
- Make sure that there is flow in your responses and not long pauses.
- If you would like help in having open conversations, make sure to visit each of the following pages. They hold open conversation questions on each of the topics:
- If you would like to take things a step further, practice with a native speaker. To buy a conversation package go here and receive written feedback after each conversation. You will be able to identify your mistakes and have an easier time correcting them.
Presentation Speaking – Cultural Comparison
For this section of the test, students have 4 minutes to read the topic and prepare the presentation. After that, they have 2 minutes to record the presentation. In this presentation, the student must compare their community with a Spanish-speaking community.
One easy way to make this comparison, the student may speak of his own experience. Then, they may speak about what they know about the experience in the Spanish-speaking community. Lastly, they may speak about what they both have in common.
It is important to always begin and end the presentation with a proper introduction and conclusion. For example, at the beginning of the presentation, the student may begin with “Queridos compañeros, hoy voy a hablarles sobre…”. At the end, the student may conclude with “Les agradezco por su atención a mi presentación”.
Tips on How to Score a 5 in Presentational Speaking – Cultural Comparison:
- Make sure to address the theme completely. Do not waste your time speaking of other topics that do not relate to the theme.
- Compare your experience with that of the target culture, related to the theme. Make sure to share accurate information of the Spanish speaking culture.
- Make sure that your presentation is easy to understand. If you feel you made a mistake, make sure it doesn’t affect comprehension. Otherwise, make sure to clarify them.
- Use as much vocabulary as you know and that it is appropriate to your presentation.
- Make sure that your grammar and syntax is correct and varied, with very few errors.
- Make sure that your grammar is consistent with the use of the informal or formal.
- Make sure that there is flow in your responses and not long pauses.
- If you would like help developing your confidence and identifying your common mistakes, practice with a native speaker. Purchase a conversation package here and receive written feedback after each conversation.
Once you have covered this section, make sure to visit the most informative guide on how to prepare for the AP Spanish Language and Culture exam.