On what criteria are candidates assessed in the Speaking section?

Candidates in the Speaking section are assessed primarily on their fluency, coherence, pronunciation, and vocabulary range. Fluency involves the ability to speak smoothly without unnecessary pauses and hesitations, demonstrating comfort with the language. Coherence assesses how well the candidate organizes their thoughts and ideas logically when speaking, ensuring that their responses are easy to follow. Pronunciation focuses on how well candidates enunciate words and phrases so that they can be understood by the listener, which is essential for effective communication. Lastly, vocabulary range evaluates the variety and appropriateness of the words used by the candidates, showcasing their ability to express themselves accurately and effectively.

While there may be elements of body language and eye contact in the assessment criteria, they do not form the core components of this section. Additionally, while idiomatic expressions are valuable for enriching language use, they are not the primary focus of assessment criteria in this context, which is more centered around communicative effectiveness and clarity in spoken English.