B2 First Speaking part 2 – the pictures

A lot of you fear this B2 First task because of the time limit. Some people think it’s too short, for others it seems like an eternity. With the right strategy, it might become your favourite part of the Speaking paper.

A NO-NO

DON’T DESCRIBE THE PICTURES! Let me tell you something that can change entirely your concept of this part. The pictures aren’t actually pictures. They are VISUAL PROMPTS that represent TOPICS. Understanding this will hopefully stop you from describing them.

A MUST-DO

Comparing and contrasting is what you are supposed to do and answer the question given.

Let’s analyse the task.

So as soon as you see the two photos, you must analyse what is similar and what is different about them. Think what ideas or topics are represented with them and how they connect to the question. Then BRIEFLY SAY what you can see and talk about the TOPICS you have identified.

Here is a quick video I made on how to identify topics and link contrasting ideas.

Example on how to contrast ideas

In the first picture, we can see a person who enjoys being in nature. In the mountain, particularly. Whereas, over here we can see people who are taking photos in a city environment.

I think they might have decided to spend their holiday in these places because of their preferences. For example, the first one may want to be alone or likes physical challenges while the other wants to learn about history and visit historical sites.

The second one doesn’t mind the crowds and tourists. But, I am not so sure about the first one. I imagine they prefer calm places and peace and quiet.

Worksheet

If you need a task to practise with and useful phrases, get my B2 First Speaking worksheet.

Good luck on your exams!

Gaby