VSTEP Speaking Part 3 (Topic Development): Talk Coherently at Length
Quick answer: VSTEP Speaking Part 3 gives you a topic with a mind map of prompts, one minute to prepare and about 3–4 minutes to speak, followed by some follow-up questions. A strong answer has an introduction, 2–3 points developed from the prompts (each with explanation and an example) and a short conclusion.
How Part 3 works
You receive a topic such as "The impact of social media on young people" with a mind map of three prompts — for example positive effects, negative effects and changes in communication. You can use these prompts or add your own ideas.
Planning in one minute
- Pick the 2–3 prompts you have most to say about.
- Note one example keyword for each (an experience, a number, a situation).
- Prepare a concluding sentence that states your view.
A framework for your talk
- Introduction: Today I'd like to talk about… I'll look at three aspects: …
- Points 1, 2, 3: each as point – explanation – example, moving on with Moving on to…, Another aspect is…
- Conclusion: Overall, I believe that… / To sum up…
Sample answer (shortened)
Today I'd like to talk about the impact of social media on young people. I'll look at its benefits, its drawbacks, and how it has changed the way we communicate.
On the positive side, social media gives young people access to information and communities they would never find offline. For example, my younger brother taught himself graphic design almost entirely through online groups.
However, there are serious downsides. Many teenagers spend hours scrolling every night, which affects their sleep and their concentration at school…
Overall, I believe social media is a powerful tool, but young people need guidance from parents and schools to use it wisely.
Follow-up questions
After your talk the examiner may ask something like "Should the government limit social media use?". Answer in 3–4 sentences with a clear view and a reason; It depends on… is a good way to show balanced thinking.
Tips for a high score
- Use the full time — stopping early loses marks for idea development.
- Use topic vocabulary and opinion phrases: From my perspective, It's widely believed that.
- Keep a steady pace and pause between points so the examiner can follow.