TEF Canada Expression orale: Sections A & B

Understand both speaking tasks, learn how to ask better questions and build convincing arguments, identify your main weakness, and choose the right preparation step.

Check My Speaking Weakness Expression Orale Course
  • Official format clearly explained
  • English guidance
  • French examples

What the Test Really Requires

Speaking French Is Not the Same as Managing the Task

Expression orale measures interaction. You must listen, react, ask for clarification, develop ideas, and keep the exchange moving. A memorized speech cannot replace a real conversation.

01

Understand the role

Know whether you are calling for information or trying to convince a friend.

02

Interact naturally

Use the examiner’s answer to ask a follow-up question or adjust your argument.

03

Develop the message

Go beyond short claims. Explain why, give an example, and connect the point to the listener.

04

Control the language

Use clear grammar, varied vocabulary, understandable pronunciation, and a steady pace.

Diagnosis First

What Is Holding Back Your Expression orale Performance?

Select the difficulty that sounds most like you. Your best next step depends on why the conversation breaks down.

Your priority

Build short speaking chains, not one perfect sentence

Practise extending one point through a simple sequence: answer, reason, example, and result.

  • Record 45-second answers using one clear structure.
  • Use simple linking phrases you can produce without long pauses.
  • Repeat the same task after listening to your recording.
Expression Orale Course

Official Test Structure

TEF Canada Expression orale Format

Both sections are role plays, but they require different communication skills. Use a separate strategy for each task.

Section A 5 minutes

Obtenir des renseignements

You are interested in an advertisement or service and contact the organization to obtain more information.

  • Open the exchange politely and explain why you are calling.
  • Ask about ten relevant questions.
  • Reformulate or ask for clarification when useful.
  • React to the answers instead of reading a memorized list.
Section B 10 minutes

Argumenter pour convaincre

You present an advertisement or activity to a friend and try to persuade that person to participate.

  • Present the offer clearly before giving arguments.
  • Connect benefits to the listener’s needs or situation.
  • Explain ideas and illustrate them with examples.
  • Continue persuading when the interlocutor disagrees.

The speaking test is face-to-face and recorded for double assessment. The official test-day instructions also state that no draft paper or notes are allowed during the Speaking test. Always verify current instructions before your exam date.

Section A Strategy

Ask Questions That Create a Real Conversation

Your goal is not to recite ten unrelated questions. Move from general information to specific details, react to the answers, and close the call naturally.

1

Open the conversation

State the reason for your call and identify the advertisement.

Bonjour, je vous appelle au sujet de votre annonce concernant les ateliers de cuisine.

2

Start broad

Invite the person to give an overview before you move into details.

Pourriez-vous me donner plus de renseignements sur ces ateliers ?

3

Cover useful categories

Ask about schedule, price, level, materials, location, group size, and registration.

Qu’est-ce qui est compris dans le prix ?

4

React and follow up

Use an answer to request a detail instead of jumping immediately to the next topic.

Vous avez parlé du matériel. Est-ce que tout est fourni sur place ?

Original Worked Example

Section A Example: Weekend Cooking Workshops

Notice how the questions cover different information categories and include natural follow-ups.

Model Question Sequence

Opening + 10 questions + closing
CandidatBonjour, je vous appelle au sujet de votre annonce sur les ateliers « Cuisine du Monde ». J’aimerais obtenir quelques renseignements, s’il vous plaît.
Question 1Quels types de recettes proposez-vous pendant les ateliers ?
Question 2Est-ce que le programme change chaque semaine ?
Question 3Combien de temps dure chaque séance ?
ExaminateurEnviron trois heures, avec une petite pause.
Follow-upD’accord. Est-ce que les participants mangent ensuite les plats qu’ils ont préparés ?
Question 4Quel est le prix d’un atelier ?
Question 5Les ingrédients et le matériel sont-ils compris dans ce prix ?
ExaminateurLes ingrédients sont compris, mais nous demandons aux participants d’apporter un tablier.
Follow-upTrès bien. Faut-il apporter autre chose, par exemple des boîtes pour emporter les plats ?
Question 6Ces ateliers conviennent-ils aux personnes qui n’ont jamais vraiment cuisiné ?
Question 7Combien de participants y a-t-il dans chaque groupe ?
Question 8À quelle adresse exacte les cours ont-ils lieu ?
Question 9Est-ce qu’il y a un stationnement ou un accès facile en transport en commun ?
Question 10Comment faut-il s’inscrire, et peut-on annuler si on a un empêchement ?
ClosingMerci beaucoup pour toutes ces informations. Je vais consulter les prochaines dates et je vous recontacte rapidement. Bonne journée !

Useful range

The candidate asks about content, schedule, duration, price, materials, level, group size, location, transport, registration, and cancellation.

Real interaction

The follow-up questions use information from the examiner’s answer. This makes the exchange sound connected rather than memorized.

Controlled language

The questions are polite and complete, but not so complex that they become difficult to produce under time pressure.

Section A Tips

Eight Habits That Make Your Questions Stronger

01

Prepare categories, not a script

Think price, time, place, conditions, equipment, level, registration, and cancellation.

02

Vary the question form

Mix “Est-ce que…?”, inversion, “Quel…?”, “Comment…?”, and polite requests.

03

Listen before the next question

The examiner’s answer may already contain information you planned to ask about.

04

Use follow-ups

Ask for precision when an answer mentions a condition, extra cost, schedule, or requirement.

05

Avoid duplicate questions

“Combien ça coûte ?” and “Quel est le prix ?” test the same information.

06

Keep the exchange moving

A short reaction such as “D’accord” or “Je vois” can make the transition more natural.

07

Do not make every sentence complex

Clear, accurate questions are safer than long structures that create hesitation.

08

Close the call politely

Thank the person and indicate your next step instead of stopping suddenly.

Weak

Le prix ?

La date ?

L’adresse ?

These fragments communicate basic meaning, but they limit language range and sound abrupt.

Better

Pourriez-vous m’indiquer le prix de l’atelier ?

À quelle date aura lieu la prochaine séance ?

Pourriez-vous me préciser l’adresse exacte ?

These are complete, polite, and still easy enough to produce naturally.

Section B Strategy

Convince Without Giving a Memorized Speech

Present the offer clearly, connect it to your friend, develop distinct benefits, and treat objections as opportunities to add stronger information.

Present
Connect
Explain
Give an Example
Handle Objection
Confirm
1

Present the offer

Explain what the activity is before trying to persuade.

J’ai trouvé une activité qui pourrait vraiment t’intéresser.

2

Connect it personally

Show why the offer fits the listener’s needs, goals, or routine.

Comme tu cherches à faire plus de sport, ce programme pourrait te convenir.

3

Develop the benefit

Explain the practical result and add a concrete example.

Les séances sont courtes, donc tu pourrais facilement y aller après le travail.

4

Answer objections

Acknowledge the concern, add information, and redirect to a solution.

Je comprends, mais le prix comprend aussi l’équipement et l’accompagnement.

Original Worked Example

Section B Example: Weekend Outdoor Fitness Program

The candidate presents the offer, builds three different benefits, and responds to objections about price, time, and personal preference.

Model Persuasion Exchange

Presentation + arguments + objections
CandidatJ’ai trouvé un programme de remise en forme en plein air qui pourrait vraiment t’intéresser. Il propose deux séances par semaine dans différents parcs, avec un coach et tout le matériel nécessaire.
Argument 1Comme tu m’as dit que tu voulais reprendre le sport sans aller dans une salle, ce serait une bonne solution. Tu pourrais bouger, prendre l’air et profiter des parcs en même temps.
AmiJe ne suis pas sûr. Je trouve que ce genre de programme coûte souvent trop cher.
ResponseJe comprends, mais le prix comprend le coach et le matériel. Si tu payais un entraîneur et l’équipement séparément, cela te coûterait probablement plus cher. En plus, la première séance est gratuite, donc tu peux essayer avant de décider.
Argument 2Un autre avantage, c’est que les groupes sont organisés par niveau. Tu ne serais pas obligé de suivre le rythme de personnes beaucoup plus expérimentées. Le coach pourrait adapter les exercices à ta condition physique.
AmiOui, mais je n’ai vraiment pas beaucoup de temps pendant la semaine.
ResponseC’est vrai que ton emploi du temps est chargé. Cependant, chaque séance ne dure qu’une heure et il y a plusieurs horaires. Tu pourrais choisir une séance le samedi matin et une autre après le travail. Cela représenterait seulement deux heures par semaine.
Argument 3Ce serait aussi plus motivant que de faire du sport seul. Tu rencontrerais des gens qui ont le même objectif, et le groupe pourrait t’aider à rester régulier. Par exemple, quand on sait que les autres nous attendent, on annule moins facilement.
AmiMais je n’aime pas beaucoup faire du sport dehors, surtout quand il fait mauvais.
ResponseJe comprends. D’après l’annonce, les séances sont adaptées à la météo et elles sont déplacées dans un espace couvert en cas de fortes pluies. Et pendant les journées agréables, être dehors pourrait justement rendre l’activité plus plaisante qu’une salle fermée.
ClosingOn pourrait faire la séance d’essai ensemble samedi. Comme elle est gratuite, tu ne risques rien, et tu pourras voir si l’ambiance et le niveau te conviennent. Qu’est-ce que tu en penses ?

Personal connection

The candidate connects each benefit to the friend’s goals, schedule, and preferences instead of listing generic advantages.

Developed arguments

Each claim includes an explanation or example: adapted levels, flexible schedules, group motivation, and a weather solution.

Objection control

The candidate acknowledges the concern, adds useful information, and returns to a practical next step—the free trial.

Weak objection response

Non, ce n’est pas cher.

This rejects the concern but gives no evidence, solution, or new reason.

Better objection response

Je comprends, mais le prix comprend aussi le matériel et l’accompagnement d’un coach. En plus, la première séance est gratuite, donc tu peux essayer avant de t’engager.

This acknowledges the concern, explains the value, and reduces the risk.

Useful French Language Bank

Reusable Phrases for Interaction, Not Memorized Answers

Learn a small number of flexible phrases, then adapt the details to the exact advertisement and the examiner’s response.

Opening Section A

  • Je vous appelle au sujet de votre annonce concernant…
  • J’aimerais obtenir quelques renseignements, s’il vous plaît.
  • Pourriez-vous m’expliquer comment cela fonctionne ?
  • Je suis intéressé(e), mais j’aurais quelques questions.

Clarifying and Following Up

  • Pourriez-vous préciser ce point ?
  • Si j’ai bien compris…, c’est bien cela ?
  • Vous avez mentionné… Est-ce que cela signifie que… ?
  • Qu’est-ce qui est exactement compris dans le prix ?

Developing Section B

  • J’ai trouvé une annonce qui pourrait t’intéresser.
  • Ce qui est particulièrement intéressant, c’est que…
  • Un autre avantage, c’est que…
  • Par exemple, tu pourrais…

Handling Objections

  • Je comprends ton point de vue, mais…
  • C’est vrai, cependant il faut aussi considérer…
  • Tu as raison sur ce point, mais on pourrait…
  • Même si…, cela pourrait quand même…

What Evaluators Need to Hear

A Strong Response Combines Communication and Language Control

The exact score comes from official assessment, but your practice should train the abilities below together—not in isolation.

Task completion

You obtain information in Section A and actively try to convince in Section B.

Interaction

You listen, react, clarify, respond to objections, and maintain the exchange.

Idea development

Your reasons are explained and supported with relevant examples or consequences.

Vocabulary

You use enough range and precision for the topic without relying on the same simple words.

Grammar

Your sentence structures are controlled enough for the message to remain clear and precise.

Fluency and pronunciation

Your pace, pauses, sounds, stress, and intonation allow the listener to follow you comfortably.

Common Mistakes

Do Not Practise These Weak Habits Repeatedly

01

Memorizing a full speech

A fixed answer may not match the advertisement or the examiner’s reaction.

02

Ignoring the answer

Continuing with a prepared list can make Section A sound disconnected.

03

Using one question form

Repeating “Est-ce que…” reduces variety and can make the interaction mechanical.

04

Giving undeveloped claims

“C’est intéressant” needs a reason, explanation, or example.

05

Turning Section B into a monologue

Persuasion requires responding to the listener, not delivering one long presentation.

06

Giving up after an objection

The interlocutor may continue disagreeing. Stay calm and add a new argument or solution.

07

Chasing perfect grammar

Long silent pauses can damage communication more than a minor self-corrected error.

08

Practising only in your head

Speaking performance improves through timed, out-loud practice and review of recordings.

Choose the Right Preparation Path

Match the Next Step to the Real Problem

More practice only helps when the practice targets the weakness that is actually limiting your performance.

Structured learning

Expression Orale Course

Best when you need the format, strategies, model language, and guided practice for both sections.

  • Section A and B strategies
  • Practical French examples
  • Step-by-step learning resources
  • Practice for fluency and task control
View the Course
Performance diagnosis

Speaking Mock Test

Best when you understand the format but need realistic interaction and personalized evidence about your weaknesses.

  • Full speaking-test simulation
  • Live interaction under time pressure
  • Detailed expert feedback
  • Clear priorities for improvement
View the Mock Test
Complete pathway

TEF Canada Packages

Best when Speaking is only one part of your preparation and you also need support across other TEF Canada abilities.

  • Multiple TEF skill courses
  • Structured preparation path
  • Options with personalized services
  • One clear place to compare support levels
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Frequently Asked Questions

TEF Canada Expression orale FAQ

How long is the TEF Canada Expression orale test?

The test lasts 15 minutes in total: approximately 5 minutes for Section A and 10 minutes for Section B.

What happens in Expression orale Section A?

You take part in a role play to obtain information about an advertisement, activity, job, or service. The official preparation guidance recommends asking about ten questions and using clarification or reformulation when useful.

What happens in Expression orale Section B?

You present an advertisement or activity to a friend and try to convince that person to participate. You should develop reasons, use examples, and respond when the interlocutor disagrees.

Is the TEF Canada speaking test recorded?

Yes. The official test instructions state that the speaking test is systematically recorded to enable double assessment.

Can I use notes during the speaking test?

The current official test-day instructions state that no draft paper, notes, or documents are allowed during the Speaking test. Confirm the latest rules with the official provider before your exam.

How many questions should I ask in Section A?

The official preparation guidance says to ask about ten questions. Quality still matters: cover different information categories, listen to the responses, and include useful follow-up questions.

What should I do when the examiner disagrees in Section B?

Stay calm, acknowledge the concern, add new information or a practical solution, and connect your response back to a benefit. Do not simply repeat the same argument.

Should I memorize an Expression orale template?

Flexible structures and reusable phrases can help, but a memorized speech may not match the exact task or the examiner’s responses. Practise adapting your language to different advertisements and objections.

How can I practise TEF Canada speaking at home?

Practise out loud, time both sections, record yourself, repeat the same task after review, and use another person to create unpredictable answers and objections. A live mock test is useful when you need realistic interaction and personalized feedback.

Are the examples on this page official TEF Canada questions?

No. Ross French Academy is an independent preparation provider. The advertisements, dialogues, strategies, and examples on this page are original TEF-style educational material, not official questions or past exam papers.

Do Not Repeat the Same Speaking Weakness

Identify whether your main problem is question range, idea development, objection handling, language control, or performance under pressure. Then choose the preparation step that fixes that exact problem.

Expression Orale Course Speaking Mock Test

Exam format checked against Le français des affaires — official Expression orale preparation guidance and official TEF Canada test-day instructions on July 24, 2026. Always verify current official requirements before your test.

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