How to Score CLB 9 in TEF Canada Speaking

Conquering the TEF Canada Speaking Test

Just like the TCF, scoring a CLB 9 (Niveau C1) in the TEF Canada Expression Orale is essential for maximizing your permanent residency points. However, the TEF format is unique, relying heavily on roleplay and your ability to persuade.

Section A: Gathering Information (5 mins)

In this section, you must ask the examiner 10 to 12 questions to get more information about a classified ad (e.g., an apartment for rent, a service, or a job offer). The goal is to show a wide variety of question structures.

• Avoid repetition: Do not start every question with the basic "Est-ce que...".
• Use indirect questions: "J'aimerais savoir si le loyer est charges comprises..." or "Pourriez-vous m'indiquer comment se déroule l'inscription ?"
• Be formal: You are calling a stranger or a business. Always use "vous" and maintain a polite, professional tone.

Section B: Convincing a Friend (10 mins)

This is the true test of your C1 abilities. You will read a short document (like a flyer for a new app, a quirky vacation, or a volunteering event) and you must convince your "friend" (the examiner) to join you. The examiner is explicitly instructed to resist, hesitate, and argue with you!

To score high, you must counter their objections smoothly without breaking character. Use strong persuasive connectors and natural conversational filler:

• Je comprends tes réticences, mais avoue que ça vaut le coup d'essayer ! (I understand your hesitations, but admit it's worth trying!)
• Ne t'en fais pas pour l'organisation, j'ai déjà tout prévu. (Don't worry about the organization, I've already planned everything.)

Key Strategies for a CLB 9

• Never drop character: If you are talking to a "friend" in Section B, always use "tu". Switching to "vous" by accident will cost you points.
• Listen and adapt: Pay close attention to the examiner's specific objections. Your responses must directly address their concerns, not just recite memorized arguments.
• Manage the silence: You are leading the conversation. If the examiner goes quiet, it is up to you to push the dialogue forward.

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