Speaking Tips for University Entrance Exams, Tutorials, and Study Groups
Speaking is a challenge not only for "non-native English" speakers but also for native-speakers, introverts, people not certain about what they want to say, and people that speak slower or have social anxiety. Add to this the formation articulate English phrases when you're first language is different, and communicating clearly with the other people hearing you - like examiners, professors and peers - then there are bound to be challenges getting your message across well.
But don't fear, there is hope!
Follow these simple techniques and master any academic speaking situation, except presentation skills, which requires its own lengthy article and is covered elsewhere. By far the most typical speaking situations in university are tutorials, study groups, and of course exams.
Watch the accompanying video with explanations and examples here:
https://youtu.be/bs6MLuZy3XI
Study Groups
Make sure everyone’s opinion is heard
Have your notes ready
Make a meeting agenda
Make a meeting structure
Tutorials
Complete any pre-tutorial activities
Write notes and questions on your drafts
Make sure your notes are readable
Anxiety-Reducing Tip: Remember that professors are there to help you
Assessments
Don’t repeat standard phrases too often
Smile, keep eye contact, use body language
Use body language gestures to show emotion and connect
Look professional and smell neutral
Fill the time with speaking
Be confident
Think and decide to say something quickly
Do not stop talking because you make a mistake
You can’t fully plan, but you can practice
Anxiety-Reducing Tip: Breathe deeply a couple of times when you feel nervous
Overall Tips
Relax - nobody’s perfect
Breathe
Feel good about yourself
Stay off your phone
Avoid looking at or memorizing long text
Listen first, then talk
Stay up-to-date in your profession
Make an agenda to reach your speaking goal