The telc Deutsch B2 exam is one of the most widely recognized certifications for German language proficiency. The speaking exam, in particular, can be challenging for many candidates, as it’s not enough to simply know the language – you need to demonstrate fluency, clarity, and structure in a real conversation. This guide will walk you through the format of the speaking exam, provide effective strategies, highlight common mistakes, and offer details about where to take the telc Deutsch B2 exam in Romania.
Structure of the telc Deutsch B2 oral exam
The speaking exam is usually conducted in pairs and lasts around 15 minutes, divided into three parts. Before the exam, candidates have 20 minutes of preparation time, during which you can read the provided materials and make notes. These notes can be used during the exam to help guide your responses.
Part 1: Talking about a personal experience (Über Erfahrungen sprechen)
The goal of this section is to assess your ability to clearly describe a personal event or experience.
- You will choose from seven topics provided in advance and can prepare one in detail beforehand.
- You have 1 minute and 30 seconds to talk about your chosen topic.
- Your partner will then ask you one or two follow-up questions.
- Afterward, your partner presents their experience, and you ask them relevant questions.
Tips for success:
- Select a topic you’re comfortable with and can discuss confidently.
- Avoid memorizing a speech. Examiners can quickly tell if you’re reciting a pre-learned text, which could lower your score.
- Focus on clarity and avoid overly long sentences that might confuse you.
- Listen carefully to your partner’s questions and provide relevant answers.
Part 2: Discussing a controversial topic (Diskussion)
This part is often considered the most challenging, as it requires not just stating your opinion but also defending it through arguments in a dialogue with your partner.
- You will receive a short text during your preparation time. You’ll need to read it carefully and note key points or arguments you can use later in the discussion.
- Start the discussion by summarizing the main theme or an interesting argument from the text.
- Throughout the conversation, express your opinion on the topic, provide arguments for and against, and engage with your partner by asking for their perspective.
- Imagine this scenario: you and your partner coincidentally read the same article over breakfast and now want to discuss it. How would you react? What arguments would you bring to the table? This is the exact dynamic you should aim for in this part of the exam.
Example topics for discussion:
- Tattoos (Tattoos)
- Internet (The internet)
- Massentourismus (Mass tourism)
- Vegetarismus (Vegetarianism)
- Denglisch (The mix of German and English in modern language)
- Teamarbeit (Teamwork)
- Bio-Lebensmittel (Organic food)
- Wohngemeinschaften (Shared apartments)
- Schönheitsoperationen (Cosmetic surgeries)
- Smartphones für Kinder (Smartphones for children)
- Fast Food (Fast food)
- Auswandern in ein anderes Land (Emigrating to another country)
- Roboter und KI (Robots and artificial intelligence)
- Social Media (Social media)
Tips for success:
- Clear summary: Practice phrases like “In dem Text geht es um…” (The text is about…) or “Der Text beschreibt…” (The text describes…) to introduce the topic naturally.
- Varied arguments: Go beyond simple “yes” or “no” answers. Support your points with examples and explanations.
- Active listening: Show that you’re paying attention to your partner by responding logically to their arguments.
Part 3: Planning an activity together (Gemeinsam etwas planen)
The final part of the exam evaluates your ability to collaborate and interact effectively in a conversation.
- You will be given a hypothetical situation, such as planning a trip, organizing an event, or preparing an activity.
- You need to propose ideas, respond to your partner’s suggestions, and work together to reach a conclusion.
- Use negotiation and proposal structures like:
- Wir könnten… (We could…)
- Was hältst du davon, wenn…? (What do you think if…?)
- Vielleicht wäre es besser, wenn… (Perhaps it would be better if…)
Tips for success:
- Be active in the conversation: Don’t wait for your partner to lead.
- Avoid one-word responses: Provide explanations and build on your partner’s ideas.
- Plan thoroughly: Think about details such as location, time, costs, and participants.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- Memorizing a speech for Part 1
Examiners can quickly detect rehearsed answers. It’s better to speak naturally, even if it means making minor mistakes. - Speaking too fast or too slow
Maintaining a balanced pace shows clarity and confidence in your language skills. - Failing to engage with your partner
This isn’t a monologue! Ask questions, listen actively, and respond appropriately. - Using a limited vocabulary
The B2 level requires more complex sentence structures and varied vocabulary. Practice using synonyms and natural expressions. - Avoiding arguments in Part 2
Simply agreeing or disagreeing isn’t enough. Back up your opinions with examples and reasoning.
Where can you take the telc Deutsch B2 exam?
In Romania, you can take the telc Deutsch B2 exam at Lektor in Iași, an accredited center offering both exam sessions and preparation courses. Make sure to check the available dates in advance, as registration needs to be done a few weeks before the exam. Use this time to prepare thoroughly!
Final thoughts
The telc Deutsch B2 exam doesn’t just test your knowledge of German – it evaluates your ability to communicate clearly and effectively in real-life situations. With proper preparation, effective strategies, and consistent practice, you can approach the oral exam with confidence.
At Lektor, we offer tailored preparation courses for the telc Deutsch B2 exam, focusing on communication skills, practical strategies for each section, and mock exams to help you familiarize yourself with the format and boost your confidence. Find your motivation, and we’ll support you every step of the way to success!
