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Changes in the Speaking Section of the Proficiency Exam of the Michigan (ECP) |
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 As of May 2009, the ECPE Michigan Oral Examination has changed; the previous form would be best described as a “conversation” between the interlocutor and the candidate, whereas the new oral exam can be best described as a structured interaction among 4-5 parties (2 examiners and 2 or 3 candidates).
The new speaking test has 5 stages. In stages 1-4 they interact with Examiner 1 who in stage 5 swaps with Examiner 2. In the first stage Examiner 1 engages with the candidates in a small talk for about 3-5 minutes. In the second stage he provides each candidate with a different prompt of two choices that they summarize. Once the summary is completed candidates make recommendations both from the other candidate’s options as well as their own. During this stage what they are being evaluated for is their ability to produce novel language; to elaborate on their prompt by using their own words rather than just reading what is in front of them. In the third stage they must reach consensus; they must discuss together the advantages and disadvantages of each option they have individually chosen and come to an agreement on one. During this stage, what they are being evaluated for is their interaction skills; Examiner 1 does not participate. In the fourth stage they each need to formally present two reasons for choosing the option in the previous stage to Examiner 2 and convince him/her that they have made the best choice. In the fifth and final stage Examiner 2 makes challenging questions to the candidates and they in return must justify and defend their final choice.
The whole oral exam lasts about 25 minutes, for pairs, and 35 minutes, for groups of 3.
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