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DET High-Difficulty Question Answers: 'Speaking Sample' (2024.10.26)

The "Speaking Sample" section of the Duolingo English Test (DET) presents the toughest challenges among the speaking questions. In our previous article, we explored strategies for approaching this section and shared some examples of high difficulty. This blog post will provide additional tips and more example questions to help candidates improve their scores.

High-Scoring Tips for the DET Speaking Sample

l Be Mindful of Your Video Presentation

Keep in mind that your speaking sample will be recorded and sent as a video. Make sure your appearance and background are tidy to create a positive first impression. Also, pay attention to your non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language, as these can significantly influence how your message is perceived.

l Keep Speaking Until the End

Don't stop speaking until you see the “NEXT” button turn blue. This means you still have time to share your thoughts. Even after the button changes color, try to complete your response naturally and wrap it up before clicking “NEXT” to finish your recording and submit it.

l Stay Focused

During the speaking test, avoid fixating on the timer. Being overly concerned about the time can distract you and disrupt your thought process and fluency. Stay relaxed and concentrate on what you want to convey; this will help you showcase your language skills more effectively.

l Practice in Advance

To improve your speaking ability, it’s advisable to practice before the test. Choose a topic that interests you and try speaking about it in English for 1-3 minutes. This will help you get comfortable with managing your time and boost your confidence for the actual test. You can practice in advance on the DETPractice website.

High-Difficulty Sample Questions and Responses

If you're looking for more practice, feel free to check out the video below.

Sample question 1:

Screenshot of a sample 'Speaking Sample' question from the Duolingo English Test.

Sample answer:

I genuinely relish engaging in class discussions and sharing my perspectives on diverse topics. It's akin to tossing a stone into a pond and observing the ripples radiate outward; each opinion fosters further dialogue, enriching our collective understanding. I’m not one to remain a wallflower; classroom discussions provide a vibrant platform for expressing ideas, clarifying doubts, and learning from varied viewpoints.

As a discussion leader, however, it can feel like walking on thin ice. It's crucial to cultivate an environment where every voice is heard and valued. Establishing ground rules to discourage offensive language and promote active listening is essential. Additionally, keeping the conversation focused is vital. For instance, during a recent discussion on climate change, when classmates veered into political arguments, the leader adeptly redirected the dialogue back to ecological impacts and solutions. Ultimately, balancing freedom of expression with respectful discourse is key to fostering an enjoyable class discussion.

Sample question 2:

Screenshot of a sample 'Speaking Sample' question from the Duolingo English Test.

Sample answer:

I wholeheartedly concur that intelligence is multifaceted and cannot be confined to a single definition. Life has shown me that intelligence resembles a Swiss Army knife, equipped with various tools for different tasks.

Take my friend Steve, for example. While he may not possess traditional academic prowess, he excels in mechanical intelligence. Whether it’s repairing cars or troubleshooting computers, he has an extraordinary knack for fixing things with remarkable ease. Then there’s my sister, Lily, who embodies emotional intelligence. Her innate ability to understand and respond to others' feelings is truly exceptional and makes her a trusted confidante.

And let’s not overlook little Timmy from next door. At just seven years old, he exhibits musical intelligence, playing the piano with the skill and artistry of a prodigy.

In essence, intelligence encompasses much more than excelling in exams or memorizing facts. It’s about how we navigate life using our unique skills and talents, which I find incredibly inspiring and worthy of celebration.