Before You Begin

Understanding the PET Exam

Read this before Lesson 1. Get the shape of the exam — papers, timing, question types, marking and sample materials — so every lesson lands in context.

Speaking

12–17 min · pairs of candidates · two examiners (interlocutor + assessor) · 4 parts · 25% of the overall mark.

PartNameFormatTask
1InterviewExaminer ↔ each candidate · ~2 minAnswer personal questions: name, where you live, studies, free time, daily life.
2Individual Long TurnEach candidate describes a colour photo · ~1 min eachDescribe what you can see in the photo (people, place, actions).
3Collaborative TaskPair task with a visual prompt of 5 pictures · ~2–3 minDiscuss the options together to make a decision or suggestion.
4DiscussionExaminer-led discussion linked to Part 3 topic · ~3 minDiscuss broader questions related to the Part 3 theme.

Assessment scales (each 0–5)

Grammar & Vocabulary

Range and accuracy of B1 structures and lexis for everyday topics.

Band 0–5

Organising your ideas

Relevant, clear and well-linked contributions with simple linking devices.

Band 0–5

Pronunciation

Individual sounds, word and sentence stress — generally intelligible.

Band 0–5

Interactive Communication

Initiates, responds and maintains simple exchanges; asks for clarification.

Band 0–5

Global Achievement

Overall overall impression across the four scales.

Band 0–5

Official Cambridge samples

Practise this paper with authentic materials

cambridgeenglish.org