Speaking is an essential part of language learning and assessment, and it is an important part of the DELF (Diplôme d’Etudes en Langue Française) exams, which are internationally recognized French language proficiency tests. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the speaking section of the DELF exams and how it is structured in the different levels: A1, A2, B1, and B2.

The DELF exams are divided into four levels, which correspond to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). The A1 and A2 levels are designed for beginner and intermediate learners, while the B1 and B2 levels are for more advanced learners. Each level is divided into two parts: written and oral. The oral exam is a face-to-face interview with a certified DELF examiner, and it tests the candidate’s ability to communicate in French.

Speaking in the DELF A1

In the A1 level, the speaking section consists of a single task where the candidate is asked to participate in a conversation with the examiner on a given topic. The topic is usually related to the candidate’s personal life or daily routine, and the conversation should be simple and straightforward. The aim of this section is to test the candidate’s basic speaking skills, including their ability to introduce themselves, ask and answer simple questions, and express their needs and preferences.

Speaking in the DELF A2

In the A2 level, the speaking section consists of two tasks. In the first task, the candidate is asked to participate in a conversation with the examiner on a given topic. The topic is usually related to the candidate’s personal life or interests, and the conversation should be more detailed and expressive than in the A1 level. In the second task, the candidate is asked to give a short presentation (2-3 minutes) on a given topic. The presentation should include an introduction, main points, and conclusion, and the candidate should use visual aids if necessary. The aim of this section is to test the candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in a variety of contexts, using a wider range of vocabulary and grammar structures.

Speaking in the DELF B1

In the B1 level, the speaking section consists of two tasks. In the first task, the candidate is asked to participate in a conversation with the examiner on a given topic. The topic is usually related to a current event or social issue, and the conversation should be more analytical and argumentative than in the lower levels. In the second task, the candidate is asked to give a short presentation (5-7 minutes) on a given topic. The presentation should include an introduction, main points, and conclusion, and the candidate should use visual aids if necessary. The aim of this section is to test the candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in more complex situations, using a wide range of vocabulary and grammar structures and to express their opinions and arguments clearly and persuasively.

Speaking in the DELF B2

In the B2 level, the speaking section consists of two tasks. In the first task, the candidate is asked to participate in a conversation with the examiner on a given topic. The topic is usually related to a current event or social issue, and the conversation should be more analytical and argumentative than in the lower levels. In the second task, the candidate is asked to give a longer presentation (10-12 minutes) on a given topic. The presentation should include an introduction, main points, and conclusion, and the candidate should use visual aids if necessary. The aim of this section is to test the candidate’s ability to communicate effectively in a variety of contexts, using advanced vocabulary and grammar structures and to express their opinions and arguments clearly and persuasively.