For this item type you need to read a written text aloud.
The countdown is shown in the recording status box. You will have 40 seconds to prepare depending on the length. You’ll then hear a short tone after which you should promptly start speaking.
You should speak clearly. There is no need to rush. Finish speaking before the progress bar reaches the end. The word “Recording” changes to “Completed”. You are only able to record your response once.
If you remain silent for longer than 3 seconds, the recording will stop.
You are scored on pronunciation, oral fluency and content of your response.
1. Before Read Aloud
You have up to 40 seconds to read the text on the screen and prepare, before the microphone starts recording, and another 40 seconds to read aloud. Utilize the preparation time to understand the text’s intended message.
The tasks won’t be longer than 40 seconds worth. Hence, you should not run out of time while doing the tasks.
2. Speaking normally
The notion that one must imitate a native English speaker is incorrect. You must stay true to your own speaking style. As long as you pronounce the words correctly, maintain the fluency, you should be fine. Moreover, be mindful of the punctuation- take appropriate pauses. Pauses carry great power and enable you to speak with a purpose. Also, put slight stress on certain words, such as nouns, adjectives or adverbs.
3. Pace and intonation
Read at a moderate pace. Avoid speaking too fast or too slow, and don’t skip words. Enunciate your words and speak clearly, without rushing the process.
The perception of ‘natural rate of speech’ varies for every individual.
As mentioned earlier, you will have sufficient time to read aloud. So do not try to read fast to save time. Just speak at a volume and rate of speech that comes naturally to you as an individual. Moreover, don’t forget to use rising intonation at the beginning of sentences and falling intonation to indicate the end of a sentence.
4. Read it as what it is
Sufficient practice will definitely allow you to achieve full score in the section. Practice real exam questions is necessary if you are lacking confidence in Read Aloud.