The Occupational English Test (OET) is a language proficiency test designed for healthcare professionals seeking to work or study in English-speaking countries. One of the four sections of the OET exam is the Speaking exam, which assesses the candidate’s ability to communicate effectively with patients and colleagues in a healthcare setting.

For many candidates, the Speaking exam can be a source of nervousness and anxiety. The fear of making mistakes or not being able to express oneself clearly can often hinder a candidate’s performance in the exam. Overcoming nerves is crucial to performing well in the Speaking exam and achieving one’s desired score.

This blog post will help OET Speaking candidates overcome their fears and perform confidently. We will discuss the exam format, assessment criteria, and sample questions. We’ll also discuss anxiousness causes and management measures. Finally, we will cover common blunders and nerve-calming techniques. This blog article will help you prepare for the OET Speaking exam.

Understanding the OET Speaking Exam

Format of the Exam

The OET Speaking exam consists of two parts conducted face-to-face with a trained interlocutor. Each exam part is designed to simulate a real-life healthcare communication scenario.

Part A: Consultation

In this part, candidates are given 5 minutes to review a healthcare-related task card and prepare notes. They will then have a conversation with the interlocutor for approximately 5 minutes, during which they will be required to gather information and advise the patient or caregiver.

Part B: Presentation

In this part, candidates are given 5 minutes to review a healthcare-related task card and prepare a presentation. They will then deliver a short presentation to the interlocutor and a brief discussion.

Criteria for Assessment

The OET Speaking exam is graded on the following criteria:

Intelligibility

The ability to speak clearly and be easily understood by the interlocutor.

Fluency

The ability to speak smoothly and without hesitation or pauses.

Appropriateness of language: The use of appropriate and accurate language for the specific healthcare scenario.

Resources of Grammar and Expression

The ability to use a range of grammatical structures and expressions to communicate effectively.

Strategic Ability

The ability to use communication strategies to overcome difficulties in understanding or expressing oneself.

Interactiveness

The ability to engage in a two-way conversation with the interlocutor, including asking and answering questions.

Practice Examples

To prepare for the OET Speaking exam, candidates can practice with sample questions provided by OET or use materials from OET preparation courses. Here are some examples of practice questions:

Part A: Consultation

Task card: You are a nurse at a general practice. A patient has come to see you with a persistent cough. Take a history from the patient and advise them on what to do next.

Part B: Presentation

Task card: You are a dietitian in a hospital. You have been asked to present to a group of nurses the importance of nutrition for patients with diabetes. Prepare a short presentation and discuss it with the interlocutor.

Identifying the Root of Nervousness

Common Reasons for Nerves During the Exam

Nervousness is a natural response to stress, and many candidates experience some level of nervousness during the OET Speaking exam. Here are some common reasons for nerves during the exam:

Fear of Making Mistakes

Many candidates worry about making mistakes during the exam, which can cause them to hesitate or lose confidence.

Lack of Confidence in Speaking Ability

Some candidates may feel unsure about their speaking ability in English, especially if it is not their first language.

Pressure to Perform Well

The OET Speaking exam is a high-stakes exam that can determine a candidate’s ability to work or study in an English-speaking country, increasing the pressure to perform well.

Lack of Preparation

Candidates who have not adequately prepared for the exam may experience nerves due to a fear of not knowing what to expect or being unprepared.

Self-Reflection Exercise to Identify Personal Reasons

It can be helpful for candidates to reflect on their reasons for nervousness before taking steps to overcome nerves. Here is a simple self-reflection exercise that candidates can use to identify their reasons:

• Take a few minutes to reflect on your feelings about the OET Speaking exam.
• Write down any specific concerns or fears that come to mind.
• Ask yourself why you feel nervous about these concerns or fears. What precisely is causing the nervousness?
• Write down any other thoughts or feelings that come to mind, even if they seem unrelated to the exam.

Importance of Identifying the Root Cause

Identifying the root cause of nervousness is essential because it allows candidates to develop strategies tailored to their specific needs. For example, a candidate nervous about making mistakes may benefit from practicing with mock exams and receiving feedback on areas that need improvement. 

On the other hand, a candidate who lacks confidence in their speaking ability may benefit from practicing speaking with a native speaker or taking an OET preparation course that focuses on speaking skills. By understanding the root cause of nervousness, candidates can take steps to address their specific needs and overcome their nerves during the OET Speaking exam.

Strategies for Overcoming Nerves

Nervousness can impact performance during the OET Speaking exam, but there are several strategies candidates can use to overcome their nerves and perform their best. Here are some effective strategies for overcoming nerves during the OET Speaking exam:

Pre-Exam Preparation Tips

Preparing for the OET Speaking exam can reduce nerves on exam day. Candidates should know the exam format, task types, and assessment criteria. Candidates can practice with sample questions provided by OET and materials from OET preparation courses. It is also essential for physical health.

Breathing Exercises and Other Relaxation Techniques

Breathing exercises and other relaxation techniques can help calm the nerves before the exam. Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation are all effective techniques for reducing stress and anxiety. Candidates can also try other techniques such as aromatherapy, calming music, or taking a short walk outside to help relax the mind and body.

Mindfulness and Positive Visualization

Mindfulness and positive visualization techniques can help candidates stay focused and calm during the exam. Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, while positive visualization involves imagining a successful outcome. Candidates can use these techniques before the exam to help reduce nervousness and stay focused and present during the exam.

Practicing with Mock Exams and with Others

Practicing with mock exams and with others can help candidates feel more confident and comfortable during the OET Speaking exam. Mock exams allow candidates to simulate the exam experience and identify areas that need improvement. Practicing with others, such as a language exchange partner or a tutor, can help candidates improve their speaking skills and receive feedback on areas that need improvement.

The Importance of Mindset

Finally, having a positive and confident mindset is key to overcoming nerves during the OET Speaking exam. Candidates should focus on their strengths and successes rather than their weaknesses or failures. It can also be helpful to remind oneself that nervousness is a normal response to stress and that it is possible to overcome nerves with practice and preparation.

Using these strategies, candidates can reduce nervousness and perform their best during the OET Speaking exam.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While there are several effective strategies for overcoming nerves during the OET Speaking exam, there are also common mistakes that candidates should avoid. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when preparing for and taking the OET Speaking exam:

Over-Preparing and Overthinking

It is important for candidates to balance preparation with self-care and relaxation. While preparation is essential, over-preparing and overthinking can increase nerves and anxiety. Candidates may feel overwhelmed and stressed if they spend too much time studying and practicing.

Negative Self-Talk

Negative self-talk can also contribute to nerves during the OET Speaking exam. Candidates may criticize themselves or doubt their abilities, increasing anxiety and decreased confidence. It is essential for candidates to recognize and challenge negative self-talk by focusing on their strengths and achievements.

Comparing Oneself to Others

Comparing oneself to others can also lead to nerves and anxiety during the OET Speaking exam. Candidates may feel inadequate or inferior when comparing their abilities to others. It is important for candidates to focus on their progress and improvements rather than comparing themselves to others.

Lack of Self-Care

Finally, neglecting self-care can contribute to nerves and anxiety during the OET Speaking exam. Candidates may feel more stressed and anxious if they do not care for their physical and emotional needs. It is important for candidates to prioritize self-care by getting enough sleep, eating well, staying hydrated, and engaging in activities that promote relaxation and stress relief.

By avoiding these common mistakes and focusing on effective strategies for overcoming nerves, candidates can perform their best during the OET Speaking exam.

Final Words

In conclusion, the OET Speaking exam is an important part of the OET exam, which can be a source of nervousness for many candidates. However, by understanding the exam format and assessment criteria and practicing with sample questions, candidates can improve their performance in the exam. Identifying the root cause of nervousness and developing strategies tailored to specific needs is crucial. Candidates can consider taking an OET training in Dubai to overcome nerves and perform confidently.