PTE Academic / UKVI Exam Pattern - Speaking
The PTE Speaking module of PTE Academic / UKVI is the first module in the PTE exam format , which contains seven 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
Re-Tell Lecture
Answer Short Question
Summarize Group Discussion
Respond to a Situation
Read Aloud
Read Aloud tests your speaking abilities to ensure that you can read the material aloud with the proper intonation and pronunciation. It requires good practice to keep your speaking scores up.
| Task | Skills assessed | Prompt length | Preparation time | Time to answer | Number of questions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A text appears on the screen. Read the text aloud | 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
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?
You have to read a paragraph out loud.
"Recording Status" will count down until the microphone opens. It will give you 30-40 seconds to read and get ready. When you hear a beep tone, you should speak right away. If you talk before the mic goes on, your voice won't be caught.
Don't rush, and speak slowly.
Read the paragraph properly before the progress bar runs out. Once "Recording" time completes, it will show as "Complete"
You can only record once.
Note: The recording will end after three seconds of silence.
Task grading is based on: Content, fluency, and pronunciation. Use these useful PTE 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 Academic?
You will need to read a text displayed on the screen aloud. It tests your ability to pronounce words clearly, speak fluently, and use correct intonation while conveying the written content naturally.
How much time do I have to prepare and read?
You will have 35-40 seconds to prepare after the text appears. Then, you will need to read the text aloud clearly and naturally.
How is the Read Aloud task scored?
The task is scored automatically using AI-based evaluation, focusing on pronunciation, fluency, and oral reading accuracy. Correctly reading the entire text with clear articulation earns higher scores.
How can I practice Read Aloud effectively?
You will need to practice regularly to improve your Read Aloud skills. Alfa PTE provides a smart platform for this, offering mock tests, sectional mock tests, and practice questions with AI scoring and instant feedback. Practicing on Alfa PTE helps you track your progress, identify mistakes, and perform confidently in the real exam.
What are common mistakes to avoid in Read Aloud?
You will need to avoid speaking too fast or too slow, mispronouncing words, skipping text, or adding extra words. Speak naturally and follow the text exactly as written.
