How to Get a High Score in the TEF Canada & TCF Canada Speaking Section: A Complete Guide

The speaking section is one of the most challenging parts of the TEF Canada and TCF Canada exams. Many test-takers struggle with fluency, coherence, pronunciation, and spontaneity, which lowers their scores.

This guide will break down:

• The format of the speaking section for both TEF & TCF Canada

• How examiners score your performance

• Mistakes that lower your score

• Proven strategies to improve your speaking skills

Understanding the TEF & TCF Canada Speaking Test Format

TEF Canada Speaking Section (Expression Orale)

• Duration: 15 minutes

• Structure: 2 tasks

  • Task 1 (Simulated Dialogue) – You must ask questions to get specific information from someone.

  • Task 2 (Expressing an Opinion) – You must give your opinion on a given topic and justify your response.

• Common Topics: Social issues, travel, health, technology, immigration, etc.

TCF Canada Speaking Section (Expression Orale)

• Duration: 12 minutes

• Structure: 3 tasks

  • Task 1 (Guided Conversation) – You must respond to everyday situations (e.g., making an appointment, asking for help).

  • Task 2 (Interaction) – You role-play a conversation (e.g., negotiating a contract, resolving a conflict).

  • Task 3 (Expressing an Opinion) – You must discuss a general topic and present arguments.

• Common Topics: Workplace issues, education, media, environment, culture, etc.

Key Takeaway:

• TEF Canada focuses more on structured responses.

• TCF Canada requires more real-time interaction.

How Examiners Score Your Speaking Performance

Both TEF & TCF Canada evaluate your speaking based on the following four key criteria:

• Pronunciation & Fluency: How clearly and naturally you speak

• Grammar & Accuracy: Correct use of sentence structure and verb conjugation

• Vocabulary & Variety: Use of advanced words and expressions

• Coherence & Logic: How well your ideas are organized and connected

Key Takeaway:

• You don’t need a perfect accent, but your speech should be clear and understandable.

• Using a variety of words and structured responses will help you score higher.

Common Mistakes That Lower Your Speaking Score

• Mistake #1: Using Short, Basic Sentences

• Mistake #2: Speaking Too Slowly or Hesitating Too Much


• Mistake #3: Poor Pronunciation and Intonation


• Mistake #4: Not Justifying Your Opinion Properly


Key Takeaway:


More details = Higher score! Always explain your opinion with examples.

Proven Strategies to Improve Your Speaking Score

• Strategy #1: Master Common Phrases & Sentence Structures

  • Use ready-made structures to sound fluent

    • To express an opinion: "À mon avis… / Je pense que… / Je suis convaincu(e) que…"

    • To compare: "D’une part… D’autre part… / Par contre… / Cependant…"

    • To conclude: "En résumé… / Pour conclure… / Finalement…"

• Strategy #2: Practice Speaking with a Timer

  • Choose a random topic (e.g., "Should social media be banned for children?").

  • Speak for 1 minute without stopping.

  • Record yourself and listen for mistakes.

• Strategy #3: Use Online Speaking Tools & Practice with AI

Key Takeaway:


Speaking every day is better than studying grammar for hours!

Last-Minute Tips for Test Day

• Stay Calm & Confident: The examiner wants to evaluate your ability to communicate, not perfection.


• Use Fillers to Buy Time: Instead of saying "umm...", say "C'est une question intéressante…".

• 
Keep Talking: Even if you make mistakes, keep going! Examiners prefer fluency over perfection.

Conclusion

If you want a high score in the TEF or TCF Canada speaking section, focus on:


• Using structured responses with details


• Practicing with a timer every day


• Expanding your vocabulary and speaking with confidence

Need expert guidance? Enrol in our structured training program to maximize your TEF/TCF scores!