CPE Speaking Practice: Studying Abroad

Introduction

In this lesson you will prepare for a CPE Part 3 long turn by

reading about the advantages of studying abroad
identifying key vocabulary
practising word stress
looking at effective ways of starting a long turn
trying a CPE Speaking Part 3 long turn

CPE Part 3 Task

You are going to prepare to answer the following Part 3 task

What are the benefits of studying in another country?

personal development
career
culture

Reading

Click the links below and read the two articles about the advantages of ‘studying in another country. These articles are on another website. Don’t forget to come back to complete the lesson!
NB: Please let me know if these links no longer work and I will update the exercise.

Vocabulary

Here are some set expressions and collocations that appeared in the two texts. Are there any you don’t understand? If so, read the article concerned again and try to work out the meaning.

Article 1

broaden the mind
engage with the local culture
open to new experiences
see the world through another’s eyes
manage your own finances
set up a bank account
figure out
in the fortunate position of
take the plunge

Article 2

the single most memorable experience
a pivotal moment
in a myriad of ways
open your mind to (something)
a well-rounded person
globalised job market
intrinsic value
share a common language
cost of living
a newfound sense of independence
a deeper understanding

Pronunciation

Listen to me pronouncing each of the expressions above. I will say each expression twice and then leave a pause for you to repeat each one after me. You should focus on word stress.
For example: BROAden the MIND

Speaking Strategy

Always be ready to give examples or to explain in more detail a point you make during your long turn and use linking words or expressions to help the examiner follow your train of thought. For example, how would you fill in the blanks below?

I think a period of time spent abroad can help make us well-rounded people. For example (………….). As well as that, (…………..).

Living alone in another country can offer us a newfound sense of independence. For instance (…………). Also, (………….)

Think about the kind of examples you could give to support your opinions.

What are the benefits of studying in another country?

personal development
career
culture

Speaking Practice Test

Now try this CPE Speaking Part 3 task. Try using some of the expressions we have looked at above along with some examples to back up your main points.

Choose what you want to do

simply record yourself and play the recording back to see how well you did.
record yourself and email me the recording. I’m afraid I can’t give everyone individual feedback but I may feature your recording on the website with my comments. You’ll be invited to email the recording when you’ve finished.

Tip! For the best quality recording try to do this somewhere quiet and with an external microphone. Remember, your talk should be no longer than 2 minutes.