Speaking Midterm Questions

Academic English speaking midterm will test the students’ knowledge as well as their ability to express their thoughts and ideas in spoken English language.  The midterm will cover units 2-5.  Students will also be tested on their knowledge and correct usage of vocabulary, clarity, fluency, comprehension, and the ability to support their answers with relevant examples to justify their answers.  

Students will have up to 7 minutes, either one-on-one, or with a partner or partners of their choosing.

Student will choose a random question by rolling a die:

1.     Do you prefer to live close to your neighbors, or do you prefer to have more space?  Why?

2.     Do you think that most people have too much stuff? Why or why not? 

3.     How do you think innocent people can be protected from going to prison?  Give examples to support your answer.

4.     Do you think the Compact is a good idea or a bad idea? Why? Could you keep a promise not to buy anything new for a year? Explain.

5.     You have the power to change an etiquette or a manner of your country.  What would you change? Why?

6.     What’s your favorite restaurant/coffee shop? Why?

Students will be graded on clarity, usage of vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, and support/detail/reason.  5 point maximum for each category, totaling 25 points.

·        Clarity-- Clear style & thought.  Organization of thoughts into correct sentence structure and pattern of thought.

·        Usage of vocabulary-- Use and expression of vocabulary words in correct context and meaning.

·        Fluency-- Spoken smoothly and with ease: flowing speech that doesn’t hinder understanding.

·        Comprehension-- Understanding of the meaning of the question and language used.

·        Support/detail/reason-- Answers are supported with sufficient reasons and details to justify the answer.