'Behind the Scores' w/ a Cambridge Examiner

I had the chance to ask Thomas, an expert Cambridge examiner with over 20 years of experience, how examiners think and what goes into scoring on test day. Hope this is helpful for those you gearing up for the CAE/CPE.

When a candidate's nerves are clearly getting the better of them during the speaking test, what's going through your head?

Thomas: It's part of our job description to make students feel comfortable. In fact I've seen far more students whose nerves get the better of them in mock testing than the real exam. By that point students have confronted most of their exam fears and have pretty good composure and control.

Do you notice when someone has memorized a phrase or used a certain preparation technique? How does that factor into scoring? 

Thomas: Scripted language should be avoided but if used with flexibility and not forced out then it's generally okay. Examiners look for naturalness not just regurgitated phrases.

How do you manage different speaking styles or personalities (really confident v. timid, heavy accents, etc.)? 

Thomas: As an examiner we aim to balance discussion through timing and by selecting students to speak based on how much they've spoken. If one student dominates the discussion, more questions are directed to the more timid candidate. Accents do not pose problems provided phonological features are clear. Credit is given to candidates who know how to develop the discussion and support weaker students if they are struggling — for example, being able to finish their sentences.

Are there any common misunderstandings about examiners or the test process? 

Thomas: Examiners are there to do a job like anyone else. Many of them started out as language learners and, as an examiner myself, I fully understand the stresses and strains involved in taking a test. They are not there to trick you or catch you out and I can fully vouch for that. Try to create a good first impression but above all be consistent and always demonstrate a positive, open attitude, even if you are very nervous. This will help a lot.

What immediately signals "high quality" or "fluent" to you when assessing writing or speaking candidates? 

Thomas: Besides sounding natural with good intonation and flow, the key to "high quality" is appropriacy. It's not always about using big words but thinking about choosing a range of words and when to use them in context. That's what really makes a candidate stand out.

You can connect with Thomas here to get extra guidance with your exam prep.