Part #2: 'Behind the Scores' on English Proficiency Exams for Japanese Students

I had the chance to ask Juan Carlos, an expert English examiner with decades of experience, how examiners think and what goes into scoring on test day. This is for Japanese students preparing for English proficiency exams like the TOEIC, EIKEN, or TOEFL.

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

JC: It is not pleasant to see and makes me a bit uncomfortable. I always wish they can relax and do as best as possible to succeed in their goals. Nevertheless, I do whatever possible to create an atmosphere that makes candidates less anxious.  

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

JC: If rote memorization fills in the gap in certain aspects of the test, fine. If it however sounds robotic, and it is delivered chaotically; it may only add up a few points. Still, better than no delivery at all.

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

JC: I tend to factor nervousness and culture. Speaking a foreign language is as much culture as fluency. English and Japanese cultures for example, are quite different and sometimes each values opposite ways of communication and interaction. It must be very hard for students to navigate these completely different ways of interacting and portraying themselves. In most cases you cannot judge based on what it could be obvious in one culture or language. I give credit to what I can understand and value academically while pondering factors hampering communication and interaction. When something has passed well beyond the grey area, I cannot give credit.  

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

JC: In the case of children In Japan, If any, I suppose it comes with culture and cultural interaction based on the examiner's background, age or appearance. Adults are generally more relaxed interacting with examiners. However, one common misconception about some of these exams is that being fluent or apparently well above the test level is a guaranteed success. Not at all. you need to know the exam format and be focused on your delivery. Fluency and confidence are important but knowing the flow and format is essential for doing great.  

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

In writing, clear exposition of ideas in sequence backed by details or examples that are easy to visualize or relate to. In speaking exams, those who stand out are the ones who can interact kindly, calmly and speak clearly utilizing language they already know well. 

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