Speaking strategy
TEF Speaking Tips: 10 Techniques to Hit Your CLB Target
The TEF Expression Orale section is where most candidates lose points. These 10 tested techniques will fix that — whether you're targeting CLB 5 or CLB 7.
The 10 techniques
- Use formules de politesse — start with "Bonjour Monsieur/Madame" and never tutoyer the examiner.
- Ask 5 open questions in Section A — quoi, qui, où, quand, pourquoi, comment.
- Reformulate — "Si je comprends bien, vous voulez dire que…"
- Use connectors — d'abord, ensuite, par ailleurs, enfin, en effet, néanmoins.
- Argue with structure in Section B — 2 arguments + 1 example each.
- Anticipate objections — "Vous pourriez me dire que… mais en réalité…"
- Watch your verb tenses — passé composé, imparfait, conditionnel.
- Slow down — fluency > speed. Pause to think.
- Self-correct — "Pardon, je voulais dire…" shows control.
- Conclude clearly — "Pour conclure / En résumé…"
Frequently asked questions
How long is the TEF speaking test?
About 15 minutes — 5 min for Section A (get info) and 10 min for Section B (convince).
Is the examiner human?
Yes — a TEF Canada examiner role-plays both situations live with you.
Can I ask the examiner to repeat?
Yes — politely asking 'Pourriez-vous répéter, s'il vous plaît?' does not penalize you.