PTE Core Exam Pattern - Speaking
The PTE Speaking module of PTE Core is the first module in the PTE exam format , which contains five different types of questions. It assesses the test takers' ability to speak English clearly and fluently in academic contexts. The test takers have to record their responses using a microphone and a headset. The responses are scored by an automated system based on various criteria such as pronunciation, fluency, content, and vocabulary & basic communicative abilities like oral fluency and pronunciation. PTE Speaking practice is an important aspect of PTE preparation & PTE Speaking mock test can be taken on Alfa PTE to gauge one’s performance.
Read Aloud
Repeat Sentence
Describe Image
Respond to a Situation
Answer Short Question
Read Aloud
Read Aloud checks your ability to speak clearly by reading a short passage with correct stress, rhythm, and pronunciation. Consistent practice is key for strong speaking scores.
| Task | Skills assessed | Prompt length | Preparation time | Time to answer | Number of questions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A text appears on the screen. Read the text aloud | Reading and Speaking | Text up to 60 words | 35-40 seconds (depending on the length of the text) | 35-40 seconds (depending on the length of the text) | 6-7 |
Task
A text appears on the screen. Read the text aloud
Skills assessed
Reading and Speaking
Prompt length
Text up to 60 words
Preparation time
35-40 seconds (depending on the length of the text)
Time to answer
35-40 seconds (depending on the length of the text)
Number of questions
6-7
How to Respond to This Task?
Read the displayed paragraph out loud.
The Recording Status bar will count down until the mic opens. You’ll get about 30–40 seconds to preview and prepare. After the beep, start speaking right away. If you speak before the mic opens, it won’t record.
Keep a steady pace; don’t rush.
Finish before the progress bar ends. When recording stops, the status will show Complete.
Note: The recording will end after three seconds of silence.
Task grading is based on: Content, fluency, and pronunciation. Use these useful PTE Core Read Aloud techniques and tips to improve your score.
FAQs
Here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions.
What is the Read Aloud task in PTE Core?
You read a passage that is on your screen. The task measures pronunciation, fluency, and natural intonation while conveying the written content accurately.
How much time do I have to prepare and read?
You typically have 35–40 seconds to prepare, then time to read aloud clearly and naturally.
How is the Read Aloud task scored?
Automated scoring evaluates oral reading accuracy, pronunciation, and fluency. Clear, complete reading earns higher marks.
How can I practice Read Aloud effectively?
Train daily. Alfa PTE offers mock tests, sectional practice, and AI feedback so you can track progress and fix errors quickly.
What mistakes should I avoid?
Speaking too fast or too slow, mispronouncing words, skipping or adding words. Follow the text exactly and speak naturally.
