Listening: four different listening jobs
The Listening paper lasts about 40 minutes and contains four parts with 30 questions. Cambridge says each recording is played twice. Read the task before the audio begins and decide whether you need a detail, opinion, main idea or match.
B2 First Listening part map
Part | Task | Questions | |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Short multiple choice | Eight short, unrelated recordings. | 8 |
2 | Sentence completion | Complete information from a monologue. | 10 |
3 | Multiple matching | Match five related speakers to statements. | 5 |
4 | Multiple choice | Follow an interview or exchange. | 7 |
Speaking: make interaction work
The Speaking test has four parts and takes 14 minutes per pair; 20 minutes for a group of three. Depending on the task, you speak to an examiner, with another candidate, or on your own.
A partner is not an obstacle to work around. Listen, respond to the point they made, and help the conversation reach a useful next step.
B2 First Speaking task map
Part | Task | What you do | Typical time |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Interview | Talk about yourself and familiar topics. | About 2 min |
2 | Long turn | Compare two photographs; respond to a partner. | 1 min + response |
3 | Collaborative task | Discuss prompts and make a decision together. | 2 min + decision |
4 | Discussion | Explore the same topic with your partner. | About 4 min |
Build reliable habits
For Listening, do one attempt without pausing; afterwards, replay and note the cue that supports each answer. For Speaking, answer the question directly, develop one point, and make space for your partner in collaborative tasks.
Clear communication is more useful than forcing complicated vocabulary into an answer. Practise extending a response with a reason, example or comparison.
Speaking durations are approximate and can vary with the number of candidates. Confirm arrangements with your centre.
Sources and further information
This guide is an independent explanation. Cambridge English publishes the exam rules and is the final source for current instructions.