How to Ace the Singapore O-Level Oral Examinations

Colman Cheung
1 day ago
5 min read

Every year, thousands of Secondary 4 students across Singapore sit for the O-Level Oral Examinations.

Though it’s just 30 marks, it’s a surprising make-or-break component for many students. These 30 marks often determine whether a student moves from a B3 to an A1, or slips from a C5 to a borderline pass. And because oral is assessed independently of written papers, it’s the easiest section to improve, if you know how.

If you’re wondering how to prepare effectively, this article is your step-by-step roadmap to mastering both parts of the exam: Planned Response and Spoken Interaction.

Exam Format and Mark Allocation

The O-Level English Oral Exam has two parts, each worth 15 marks, and they’re conducted back-to-back.

1. Planned Response (15 marks)

You will be shown a video, usually 1-minute, on a computer screen, followed by a prompt.Next, you get 10 minutes to plan your response (on a piece of paper) before presenting your answer to the examiner.

Your response should be about 2 minutes and demonstrate both understanding of the video and personal insight.

2. Spoken Interaction (15 marks)

You’ll then engage in a 2-way conversation with the examiners, based on a topic loosely related to the video.

This section tests your ability to think critically, express your ideas clearly, and defend your opinions.

Expect 2-3 questions, with the final one often argumentative.

How to Effectively Use the 10-Minute Prep Time for your Planned Response?

What if we told you there’s a simple trick to nailing your Planned Response? No more rambling. Just a clear, focused structure that actually helps you get that A for your Oral.

Step 1: Watch the video twice

First time: Understand the main idea
Second time: Pick out key details using 5W1H
- Who, What, When, Where, Why, How

Step 2: Jot down your plan.

No need to draw fancy tables. Instead, just write down the following:

Question analysis: What is the prompt asking you? What is the focus?Video details: Key observations from the video
Your response: Your opinion or experience
Related themes: Prepping mentally for the next section

Step 3: Structure your answer using PEEL

Point: Start with a direct answer using words from the prompt
Explain: Give 2–3 reasons. Use linkers like “firstly” and “moreover”
Example: Share a relevant personal experience or observation from the video
Link: Reiterate your main point

The Spoken Interaction: What to Expect and How to Prepare

This is where students tend to panic. Unlike the Planned Responses, this component happens in real time; you won’t be able to brainstorm and organise your thoughts. But once you know the format, it becomes predictable.

To break it down, here are the three question types you’ll encounter during the Spoken Interaction, and the proven structure to tackle each one effectively

3 Types of Questions You’ll Face:

Narrative-based (Recount a memory)
Expository (Explain a concept or opinion)
Argumentative (Take a stand on an issue)

How to answer narrative-style questions?

Use the SIT framework:

Set the scene (Who, what, when, where)
Important events (Describe key moments and emotions)
Thoughts/Takeaway (Reflect on what you learned or how it impacted you)

Example: Tell me about a family vacation you enjoyed

Set the scene: During the school holidays last year, my family and I went on a week-long vacation to Bali, Indonesia. It was our first time there, and we were really excited to explore the island and experience a different culture.

Important event(s): One of the most memorable days was when we visited Nusa Dua Beach. The water was crystal clear and warm, and we spent hours swimming and snorkelling among colourful fish. In the evening, we attended a traditional Balinese dance show. The dancers wore beautiful costumes, telling ancient stories through music and dance. It was fascinating to see the skill and passion in their performance.

Thoughts/Takeaways: I really enjoyed this vacation because my family had time to relax, laugh, and make memories away from our busy daily lives. I also gained a greater appreciation for different cultures, especially through the dance and local food we tried. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience that taught me the value of family.

How to answer expository questions?

Use the same PEEL method as in Planned Response.

State your Point
Explain it
Give Examples (personal + real-world)
Link it back to your point

Example: What are the advantages and disadvantages of studying in groups?

1st Point using PEEL

Firstly, studying in groups helps students understand topics better (P). When you discuss ideas with others, you can hear different explanations and perspectives (E). For example, my best friend is strong in Maths, and she often helps me understand difficult concepts (E). Thus, studying in groups can encourage collaborative learning, which leads to deeper understanding (L).

2nd Point using PEEL

Secondly, studying a group motivates students to stay focused (P). Knowing that others depend on you encourages commitment and discipline (E). I remember reading an article once that said that setting group deadlines helps members prepare for exams on time (E). Thus, studying together can improve overall productivity (L).

3rd Point using PEEL

However, studying in groups can sometimes cause distractions (P). We might get sidetracked by chatting with one another (E). Last week, I tried to study with my friend, and we ended up gossiping instead of reviewing our history notes (E). Evidently, studying alone may be more effective than studying in a group (L).

How to answer argumentative questions?

Use the SCARE technique:

Stand: Take a position and give two reasons (PEEL)
Counter-Argument: What would someone else say?
Answer (Rebuttal): Refute their argument
Restate your stand
End strong

Example: In order to reduce pollution, people should travel only when necessary. What do you think?

Stand

I agree to a small extent.

Firstly, travel plays a crucial role in economic growth and job creation. Many industries such as tourism and hospitality rely heavily on people traveling regularly. For example, in Singapore, tourism contributes billions to the economy and supports thousands of jobs. Thus, restricting travel too much could harm livelihoods and slow down the economy.

Moreover, travel is important for social and cultural exchange, which promotes understanding and peace. Meeting people from different backgrounds helps reduce prejudices and builds global friendships.

For instance, during a family trip to Japan, I interacted with local students during a community tour. We bonded over simple things like food and music, and it helped me appreciate how different cultures can have so much in common. Thus, without travel, we risk becoming more close-minded and disconnected from the world around us.

Counter-Argument + Rebuttal

Some may argue that reducing travel is necessary to protect the environment. They believe fewer trips means less carbon emissions. One example they may cite is the temporary pollution drop during the pandemic lockdowns. However, technology like electric vehicles and cleaner fuels can reduce pollution without limiting travel, allowing us to balance our economic, social, and environmental needs.