speaking exams

[Ampelmann]

I have two assessed language presentations today, both about topics I have no real interest in but I have tried to be enthusiastic about. I’ve never had two in the same day before and I hate even one, because I know those 20 minutes I’m stood there making mistakes I can’t go back and do again. It’s very obvious you’re being judged.

I’m speaking without a set text and notes (apart from statistic numbers) and have practised both presentations with the materials and handouts in front of friends. I know I can present them both reasonably well with no pressure. However, I have a horrible tendency in oral exams to either speak absolute rubbish and go round in circles contradicting myself without thinking about what's coming out of my mouth (not good for being questioned on it later) or just finding it so hard to get any words out at all. Neither option is good for my marks and I desperately need a few good marks in my language to make up for my last oral exam and a writing piece I messed up.

Advice on how to stay calm for both would be hugely appreciated!

[makedamnsure]

No real advice as it sounds like you have prepared well already. Try some breathing exercises beforehand maybe. You will probably do better than you think. Good luck!

[Ampelmann]

Thanks. Just finished the last one. The first one I was panicing like mad, the second one I was much calmer. But yey! Done now and don't have any more for a few weeks :)

[Albemarle]

Glad it went okay. Sorry you felt panicked during the first one, but it sounds like you dealt with it really well as you managed to calm yourself so well for your next exam.

I'm glad you get to have a break from exams now.