A2 Speaking Exam Part 2 (Discussion)
Cambridge A2 Key Speaking Exam – Part 2
The Cambridge English A2 Key is an elementary-level exam that proves you can use basic English for everyday situations. The Speaking paper makes up 25% of your total score and lasts 8–10 minutes (for two candidates) or 13–15 minutes (for three candidates). It is conducted face-to-face with two examiners: one (the interlocutor) speaks to you, while the other listens and assesses. The test has two parts. Part 2 (the discussion phase) is the longer and more interactive section, lasting 5–6 minutes. What happens in Part 2?
Part 2 tests your ability to:
- Discuss likes and dislikes
- Give simple reasons for your opinions
- Interact with another candidate by asking and answering questions
- Keep a conversation going
The examiner shows you and your partner a sheet of paper with 5–7 pictures (usually around 6) all related to one topic. Common topics include everyday activities, places, food, hobbies, transport, jobs, shopping, free-time activities, or celebrations.
The interlocutor gives you a prompt question, such as:
- “Do you like these places? Why / why not?”
- “Would you like to do these activities with friends? Say why or why not.”
- “Which things would you like to buy? Why?”
- “Here are some pictures of different jobs. Do you like these jobs? Why / why not?”
You then talk mainly to each other (not directly to the examiner) about the pictures.
Part 2 usually has two short phases:
- Candidate-to-candidate discussion — You and your partner discuss the pictures and the main question for 2–3 minutes. The examiner listens but does not interrupt much at first.
- Follow-up questions — The interlocutor asks each of you one or two extra questions on the same topic to extend the conversation (for example: “And you? Which one do you prefer?” or “What do you like doing at the weekend?”).
How should you approach Part 2?
- Speak to your partner naturally — look at them, smile, and react to what they say.
- Give more than one-word answers. Instead of “Yes, I like it,” say: “Yes, I like pizza because it’s very tasty and I eat it with my family on Saturdays. What about you?”
- Use connectors to make your speech flow better: and, but, because, also, for example, I think…
- Ask questions to keep the conversation alive: “Do you like…?”, “What do you think?”, “Which one do you prefer?”, “Why?”
- Talk about several pictures, not just one.
- If you don’t understand a word in a picture, you can say something like: “I don’t know this word… but I think it’s…”
- Don’t worry about making small mistakes — the examiners want to hear you communicate and interact.
Assessment criteria for Part 2
Examiners give marks in these areas:
- Grammar and Vocabulary — using simple structures and everyday words correctly
- Pronunciation — speaking clearly enough to be understood
- Discourse Management — organising your ideas and keeping the conversation going
- Global Achievement — how well you complete the task overall and interact with your partner
Useful phrases for Part 2
Starting: “I think…”, “In my opinion…”, “For me…” Agreeing: “Yes, I agree.” / “Me too!” / “That’s right.” Disagreeing politely: “I’m not sure…”, “I don’t really like it because…”, “Maybe, but I prefer…” Asking: “What do you think?”, “Do you like this one?”, “Which picture do you prefer?” Giving reasons: “because it’s fun / expensive / healthy / relaxing / noisy / near my house…”Quick tips to do well
- Practise with a partner using sample pictures (many free resources exist online, including official Cambridge sample papers).
- Time yourselves — aim to speak for at least 4–5 minutes without long silences.
- Don’t dominate the conversation — give your partner time to speak.
- Stay positive and friendly — examiners notice good interaction.
Part 2 is your chance to show you can have a real, simple conversation in English. With practice, most candidates find it enjoyable once they get used to talking about pictures with a partner.