Introduction
At Tiju's Academy, exam takers express dissatisfaction with their performance in the PTE Speaking module. Despite hours of preparation, many test-takers struggle to identify the specific mistakes that lower their scores. The Speaking module is a vital component of the PTE exam, designed to assess a candidate’s fluency, comprehension, and pronunciation. However, the recent changes in the scoring system have added new challenges, making it even more important to understand how the PTE evaluates responses.
“Master your errors, and you will master your score.”
Understanding Why Students Struggle
Lack of Awareness of Their Own Mistakes
Many students are unaware of the exact errors they commit. This is often due to the fast-paced nature of the speaking tasks and the pressure to respond quickly. Without guided feedback, these mistakes go unnoticed and uncorrected.
Misconception About Scoring
Students often assume that PTE speaking is judged like a traditional classroom assessment. However, AI scoring in PTE focuses purely on measurable metrics:Content
Pronunciation
Oral Fluency
The system does not interpret emotion, confidence, or accent—only the clarity and accuracy of your speaking.
Key Features of the PTE Speaking Module
AI-Based Evaluation
Unlike human examiners, the PTE algorithm evaluates every response with precision. Even small errors—such as missing keywords, unnatural pauses, hesitations, or mispronunciations—can impact the overall score.
Emphasis on Content
The recent changes in the speaking section now place greater importance on task content, meaning that students must strictly follow the prompt. Missing key points or speaking off-topic reduces content scores significantly.
Session Format: Speaking Before Writing
The Speaking and Writing tasks are combined in the first section of the PTE Academic exam, but the speaking tasks always come first, followed by the writing tasks. This order can be mentally challenging for students, especially for those who feel nervous at the beginning of the test.
How to Overcome Barriers in PTE Speaking
Practice With AI-Aligned Techniques
Students must use techniques tailored to PTE’s scoring system, such as:
Maintaining smooth, natural fluency
Avoiding unnecessary pauses
Keeping a steady rhythm and speed
Speaking clearly without overemphasising words
Avoid Overthinking
Thinking too much about grammar while speaking can break fluency. Instead, focus on producing consistent speech with minimal hesitation.
Improve Pronunciation Gradually
Use tools or coaching sessions that help you speak clearly, correctly, and consistently.
Learn to Analyse Your Own Mistakes
Record your practice sessions and evaluate them. Identifying your mistakes is the first step toward correcting them.
Train With Professional Guidance
Expert coaching helps students identify and address their weaknesses effectively. At Tiju's Academy, trainers like Stan Sunny specialise in guiding students to build accuracy and fluency simultaneously.
The PTE Speaking module becomes easier once students understand how the scoring works and learn to identify their own errors. By focusing on content, pronunciation, and fluency—and practising with AI-based strategies—students can significantly improve their performance and achieve their desired score.
