1. You should familiarize yourself with the tasks on the test, practice speaking English aloud, and develop a presentation (see #2 below).  If you want to practice, use the practice test, record yourself, and listen to your responses.   

  1. Before the test, you will prepare to clearly present a topic of your choice from your field of study in words that an introductory undergraduate class could understand and to answer questions which will be asked of you during your presentation. 

As you prepare for your presentation, please keep the following in mind: 

  • Your lesson is happening sometime in the middle of the semester rather than at the beginning. You should not begin your presentation by saying, "Welcome to this course. My name is ..." 

  • You should choose a topic suitable for undergraduates in an introductory level class in your discipline. You could explain a concept, define a term, describe a process or demonstrate a procedure. It might be helpful to look through some of the undergraduate textbooks used in your department for ideas. Most disciplines now have “open textbooks” online that you can access from home if you need ideas. 

  • When you prepare your presentation, prepare enough material for at least 10 minutes. Be sure that it allows you to use enough language so that you can demonstrate your level of language proficiency. If the material you choose is too simple and does not allow you to use enough language, the evaluators may not be able to accurately determine your language proficiency level. 

  • You may share your screen during the presentation to display a whiteboard, PowerPoint, or other visual if you choose. You may use notes or a copy of the textbook, but do not memorize or read from a script.  

  • Members of your audience will play the role of students and will interrupt you with questions related to the topic you present.  (The "Raise Hand" and "Chat" features will not be used during the presentation.)  This may mean that you will not finish everything you have prepared.  This will not impact your score. 

  • You can ask the audience questions during your presentation. This includes asking the audience to clarify questions that they ask you.  

View a practice SPEC test here.