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Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Candidate Guide
Computer Version

July 2013
© British Council 2013

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

This Guide is for Aptis candidates who wish to prepare for the test tests.
There is more information about the test, as well as interactive
demonstration versions (demo tests) to be found on the Aptis website
(www.britishcouncil.org/exams/aptis).
The Guide first gives a brief overview of the test. It then looks at each of the
tests in turn, offering advice on how best to approach the items and
describing how the test is scored.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

CONTENTS
The British Council........................................................................................................................................... 4

Introducing the Aptis Test ............................................................................................................................ 5
Aptis Test Structure ......................................................................................................................................... 5
Quick Guide to the Aptis Tests .................................................................................................................... 6
Aptis Core Test................................................................................................................................................... 7

Sample Grammar Questions......................................................................................................................... 8

Sample Vocabulary Questions .................................................................................................................. 10
Getting to grips with the online test ...................................................................................................... 13
Aptis Reading Test ........................................................................................................................................ 15
Sample Reading Questions ........................................................................................................................ 16

Aptis Listening Test ...................................................................................................................................... 22
Sample Listening Questions ...................................................................................................................... 23

The Aptis Writing Test................................................................................................................................. 25

Sample Writing Tests ................................................................................................................................... 26

The Aptis Speaking Test.............................................................................................................................. 33
Sound Recording ............................................................................................................................................ 34
Speaking Scale ................................................................................................................................................. 36

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

The British Council
The British Council creates international opportunities for the people of the UK
and other countries and builds trust between them worldwide. We call this work
cultural relations.
We are on the ground in six continents and over 100 countries bringing
international opportunity to life, every day. Each year we work with millions of
people, connecting them with the United Kingdom, sharing our cultures and the
UK’s most attractive assets: English, the Arts, Education and our ways of living
and organising society. We have over 75 years’ experience of doing this.

In line with our Royal Charter, we aim to bring high quality English materials to
every learner or teacher who wants them around the world. We work with
governments to transform whole education systems to increase opportunity and
employability through English. We train teachers by radio, web and broadcast in
developing and post conflict countries. We also deliver English teaching and
testing.
All over the world, people want greater educational opportunities to enhance
their lives and employment prospects. We live in a globalised world so our focus
in education is on bringing an international dimension to education in schools,
technical colleges and universities, on raising educational standards by sharing
the UK's expertise, and on encouraging the best international students to study
in the UK.
The British Council’s high profile work in English, the Arts and Education &
Society helps hundreds of millions of people worldwide to learn about and
experience creativity and excellence from the UK. Millions of talented people of
all ages – but particularly younger people – engage face-to-face and online with
us learning English, developing new skills, experiencing life and study in the UK
and earning UK qualifications.

Thousands of policymakers, academics, business people, researchers, artists,
sportspeople, scientists, curators, creative entrepreneurs, and teachers work
through us to develop policy, professional standards and participation in English,
the Arts, Education and civil society. In the process, they create new
opportunities and possibilities for the UK and their own countries.
By teaching and testing English, changing the way we see each other through the
Arts, offering international education opportunities and sharing the UK’s ways of
living and organising our society we create opportunity, trust, prosperity and
security for the people of the UK and the many other countries we work in
around the world.
Go to www.britishcouncil.org for more information on the British Council.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Introducing the Aptis Test
Aptis is a new and innovative global
English assessment tool from the
British Council. It is an English test
for adults and young adults, which
can be used to assess ability in all
four English skills - speaking,
listening, reading and writing. It also
allows organisations and individuals
to develop specific English skills,
with the ability to test just one skill,
e.g. listening only (combined with
the core grammar and vocabulary
component).

Aptis is usually taken on a computer,
but the Core Test, the Reading Test
and the Writing Test can all be taken
using the more traditional pen &
paper test.

From late 2013, it will be possible in
many parts of the world to take the
Speaking Test and the Listening Test
using a phone while the new iPad
and tablet versions will also appear
in late 2013.

companies, so the results are only of
value to you within the client
institution or company.

Aptis Test Structure
Aptis consists of five components,
Core (grammar & vocabulary),
Reading, Listening, Writing and
Speaking. Different clients decide
which components are needed for
their situation, so you, the candidate,
may be preparing to take a single
component package (e.g. Core +
Reading) a two-component package
(e.g. Core + Reading + Listening) a
three component package (e.g. Core
+ Reading + Listening + Writing) or a
four component package (Core +
Reading + Listening + Writing +
Speaking). In fact, there are 15
possible combinations:

Level

Aptis does not test at a single level.
Instead, it includes a range of
questions, which are designed to
allow the candidate to demonstrate
his or her best ability. The test
results are reported either on a
numerical scale (0-50) or reported
as a Common European Framework
of Reference for languages (CEFR)
level.
Recognition

Aptis is not a recognised test. It
cannot be used for visa, university
entrance or other immigration
purposes. The test is designed to be
used
within
institutions
or
© British Council 2013

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Quick Guide to the Aptis Tests

11 minutes

Speaking

40 minutes

Writing

25-50 minutes

Listening

40 minutes

Reading

Core

25 minutes

Test

Test Design

Format

Activity

Part 1

Grammar

Complete a sentence or phrase.
Complete a short dialogue.

Three-option multiple choice.

Part 2

Vocabulary

Word usage.
Word matching (similar meaning).
Word pairs or word combinations
(words commonly used together).

Match words.
Sets of five target words with
ten options.

Part 1

Sentence
comprehension

Choose words to complete
sentences.

Five, three-option multiple
choice questions, focusing on
grammar, vocabulary and
sentence-level understanding.

Part 2

Text cohesion

Put sentences into the correct order.

Re-order a series of sentences
to form a story

Part 3

Short text
comprehension

Text completion using appropriate
words, focusing on text-level
understanding.

Select words from a list to form
a short text.

Part 4

Long text
comprehension

A long text with a series of headings
to be matched to each paragraph
(with distractors).

Matching, focusing on global
text level understanding, and
integrating heading to main text.

Part 1

Word and number
recognition

Listen to a short input (in the form of
a phone message) to identify
specific information.

Part 2

Literal meaning

Listen to short conversations with
two speakers or to monologues to
identify specific information.

Part 3

Inference meaning

Listen to short conversations with
two speakers or to monologues to
identify speaker attitude, intention,
mood etc.

Part 1

Word level writing

Complete basic personal
information on a form.

Form completion

Part 2

Short text writing

Personal information questions.

20-30 words

Part 3

Three written responses
to written input

Respond to written input on a social
network-type website.

40 words for each question

Part 4

Formal and informal text
writing

Write an informal email to a friend
and a more formal email. Both
emails are in reaction to information
about a change.

50 words for part 1
120 - 150 words for part 2

Part 1

Personal information

Respond to three personal
information questions.

30 seconds for each response

Part 2

Description of picture
and comparison with
own situation

Describe a picture and answer two
related questions.

45 seconds for each response

Part 3

Describe, compare and
speculate.

Two contrasting pictures presented.
Answer three questions of
increasing difficulty.

45 seconds for each response

Part 4

Discuss personal
experience or opinion in
relation to an abstract
topic.

Picture prompt – though picture is
not central to answering the task.
Answer three questions related to a
single topic.

One minute preparation time
Two miniutes response time

Four-option multiple choice for
each item (may be listened to
twice).
The minimum time (listening
once) is 25 minutes.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Aptis Core Test
The Core Test consists of two parts. The first assesses your knowledge of the
grammar of English. The second part assesses your knowledge of English
vocabulary.
To know what parts of grammar to expect in the test see the British
Council/EAQUALS Core Inventory. This is free, and is available online at:
http://clients.squareeye.net/uploads/eaquals2011/documents/EAQUALS_Britis
h_Council_Core_Curriculum_April2011.pdf

As with the other tests, it is really helpful to practice before taking the test by
taking the demo tests on the Aptis website:
www.britishcouncil.org/exams/aptis
Test Design

Description

Preparation

Part 1

In this part of the test, you will be presented
with 25 questions, each focusing on a specific
aspect of English grammar. The actual aspects
of grammar tested are to be found in the Core
Inventory (see above).
While most of the questions test formal written
English, a small number will focus on aspects
of spoken English, for example, knowing the
appropriate grammatical form to use in a
particular situation (formal or informal for
example).
All 25 questions are in the format of a threeoption multiple-choice. You can see some
typical examples below.

There are a number of ways to prepare for this
test.
One great way to prepare for the grammar test is
to use the British Council’s LearnEnglish
Grammar App.

The vocabulary part of the Core Test also
contains 25 questions. These are presented in
sets of 5 target words (the words we are
testing) with ten options from which to choose.
There are a number of question-types:
Word definition: match a definition to a word.
Word usage: complete a sentence by
selecting the correct word.
Word matching: find a word with a meaning
similar to the target word.
Word pairs or word combinations: these are
usually the most difficult questions as you need
to know what word (from a list) is most
commonly found with the target word (e.g.
birthday card is common but blue card is not).

To prepare for this part of the test the
LearnEnglish website has almost 20 different
games, activities and Apps for vocabulary.
There are also many useful websites, for example
English Club has some very useful information
and activities. The address is:
http://www.englishclub.com
Another useful tip is to take note of interesting
words or word combinations when you read
English texts.

Part 2

Grammar

Vocabulary

Visit the British Council’s LearnEnglish website
for lots of very useful activities and tips (and more
Apps):
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Sample Grammar Questions
There are two basic question types. The first focuses on formal written English,
and the second focuses on the grammar of English speaking.

Here are some examples:
1. Written Grammar

He ____________ me that the machine was broken.
told

spoke
said

My boss says that I ____________ to finish the report by Friday.
must
have

should
My new computer works ____________ faster than my old one.
many
more

much
I have worked for this company ____________ I left university.
since
after

from

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

2. Spoken Grammar
John:

She’s French, isn’t she?

Ahmed: No, ____________ she’s from Belgium.
exactly

actually
anyway

Zeynep: I really don’t feel like going to see that movie tonight.
Peter:

Ok. ____________ we can go next week instead.

Maybe

However

Nevertheless

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Sample Vocabulary Questions
There are a number of question types. The first focuses on the definition of a
word (showing that you know what the word means).
In this format, move the cursor to the definition you wish to match. Then select
the correct answer and move on to the next definition.

The next question type tests your ability to identify words with a similar
meaning from a list of options.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

The final question type asks you to identify a word from a list that is commonly
used with the given word.

There is a final question type which asks you to complete a sentence using a
word from a list.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Sample Questions Answer Keys
Grammar Sample Questions Answer Key

Correct answers

told
have
much
since

actually
Maybe

Vocabulary Sample Questions Answer Key
Correct answers

Correct answers

urge
convert
rehearse
mend
plain
not clear
painful
not real
wall
fact
throat
light

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Getting to grips with the online test
When you start the test, the introductory screen looks like this:

On screen, the questions will appear like this:

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

The different parts of the page are explained below:

The best approach to preparing for the test is to practice using the demo tests on
the Aptis website.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Aptis Reading Test
The test is designed to assess your reading ability. The tasks become more
difficult as the test progresses.
Test Design

Description

Preparation

Part 1

Sentence
Comprehension

Choose drop-down words to complete
sentences.
Each sentence in the short text is freestanding but appears to form a text, so it is not
necessary to understand all of the sentences
to answer the individual questions.
There are five three-option multiple choice
questions in total.

This part of the reading test is aimed at CEFR
level A1 (the lowest) and assesses your ability to
read a sentence and to complete it with an
appropriate grammatical form or word.
To prepare for this task, it would be useful to go
back to the grammar and vocabulary activities
mentioned in the description of the Core test
above.
Of course the best way to become a better
reader is to practice. A number of publishers
produce graded readers that might be of use.
For example, try:
Cambridge Bookworms Starter/Stage 1
Cambridge Readers – Level 1
Penguin Readers – Level 1
Macmillan Readers – Starter/Beginner
Headway Skills series

Part 2

Text Cohesion

In this task you will see a series of seven
sentences. They belong to a single story that
has been jumbled up. There is only one way
that the sentences go together to form the
story and your task is to click on the
sentences and drag them to the correct
position in the story.
This task tests your knowledge of the
cohesion of a text. So, you are looking for the
clues in each sentence that show how it links
to other sentences.

Read all of the sentences carefully first. Then,
decide on the order (the first sentence is
identified for you).
Appropriate readers for this level are:
Cambridge Bookworms Stage 1 & 2
Cambridge Readers – Level 2
Penguin Readers – Level 3
Macmillan Readers – Elementary

Part 3

Short text
comprehension

In this task you will need to read a short text
(about 150 words). The task is to complete
the text by selecting the appropriate words
(from a list) to fill in the gaps. To complete all
of the text you need to understand more than
just a sentence.

Read over the whole text before starting to
attempt the questions.
Appropriate readers for this level are:
Cambridge Bookworms Stage 2 & 3
Cambridge Readers – Level 3, 4 & 5
Penguin Readers – Level 4
Macmillan Readers – Pre Intermediate

Part 4

Long text
comprehension

This task consists of a long text (about 750
words) with a series of headings. The task is
to match the headings to paragraphs in the
text (there are 7 to be done). There is always
an extra heading that does not fit with any
paragraph.
This task is designed to test your ability to
read and understand a long text. In addition
you need to be able to demonstrate an
understanding of how the headings reflect the
paragraphs in different ways (sometimes
using similar words, other times similar ideas,
or by sharing a topic – though this is never
obvious).

Read the main text carefully but as quickly as
you can. Then carefully read the headings. Do
all this before starting the task. Look for clues to
connect the headings to the paragraphs; these
might be similar words, ideas or topics.
Appropriate readers for this level are:
Cambridge Bookworms Stage 4, 5 & 6
Cambridge Readers – Level 4, 5 & 6
Penguin Readers – Level 5 & 6
Macmillan Readers – Intermediate & Upper
Intermediate

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Sample Reading Questions
Part 1
In this task, you must select the appropriate word from a drop down list. You
should complete this task in about 3 minutes.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Part 2
In the second task, the objective is to sort the sentences into the correct order to
make a story. Do this by clicking on a sentence and dragging it to its correct
position. In the example below, we are moving the sentence at point 6 up to
point 2. When we do this the sentence at point 2 swaps position.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Part 3
In the third task, you must select the word from the group at the bottom of the
screen (in the green boxes) and drag the appropriate word into each of the seven
empty boxes in the text. As you can see, there are 10 option words and only 7
spaces.
If you change your mind, that’s not a problem as you can move a word out of a
box if necessary.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Part 4
For the final task, it is necessary to scroll the reading text to see all of it. Do this
by clicking on the side bar (as shown) and move the bar up and down.
Select the appropriate heading from the drop down list on the left hand side.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Reading Test Answer Key
Part 1

Part 2

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Part 3

Part 4

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Aptis Listening Test
The listening test has 25 separate questions focusing on different aspects of
listening.
There are a number of things to remember about the listening test:
1.
2.
3.
4.

All 25 questions use the 4-option multiple-choice format.
Each listening input has a single question.
You may listen to the question a second time if you need to.
The three types of questions are described below. In the test itself, these
types of questions do not appear in order.

Test Design

Description

Preparation

Part 1

Word and
number
recognition

In these questions the candidate listens to a
short input in the form of a phone message
and needs to identify specific information. This
might be a number (e.g. phone, time) or a
word (e.g. identifying the difference between
thirty and thirteen).

Visit the British Council’s LearnEnglish website
for lots of very useful activities, tips, apps and
podcasts:
http://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/en
The Elementary podcasts are useful preparation
for these questions.

Part 2

Literal meaning

The emphasis in these questions is on detail.
The candidate listens to short conversations
with two speakers or to a monologue. The
focus is on identifying specific information
such as what to buy at the shop or what plan
the speakers decide on (e.g. go to a movie).

There are quite a few useful practice videos and
podcasts on the LearnEnglish website, so that’s
a very good starting point. For teenagers, there’s
a special LearnEnglish site, with a lot of
additional practice material.
In addition, it may be useful to try to listen to as
much English in natural or near natural settings
(e.g. movies) as possible. If you have access to
the internet, you can easily find materials, for
example on the BBC website
(http://www.bbc.co.uk). If not, try radio stations
such as the BBC World Service.

Part 3

Inference
meaning

In these questions the candidate again listens
to short conversations with two speakers or to
a monologue. The focus here is not on
understanding the meaning of what the
speakers are saying, but on identifying clues
in their language or tone to help identify the
attitude of the speaker, their intention or
mood.

There are a number of higher level podcasts on
the LearnEnglish website. Also try the BBC
website or the BBC World Service radio station.
The strategies you will need to develop to draw
inferences in listening will include paying specific
attention to intonation and stress when
somebody is speaking to understand what mood
they are in. Listening to authentic speech such
as television soap operas or movies is a good
way to help you with this.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Sample Listening Questions
All of the listening questions look quite similar, though they are often focused on
different aspects of listening.
Remember that if you’d like to hear a question for a second time just click on the
Play button:
The system will not allow you to listen more than twice.
Part 1

Part 2

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Part 3

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

The Aptis Writing Test
The writing test is built around a series of inter-related activities. Typical
activities include joining a club or applying for a visa.

There are 4 parts, which range from the very basic form filling to quite complex
email messages, they are explained below.
Make sure you fully understand the questions. Plan what you are going to write
and then edit your writing before clicking to the next question. The most
common mistakes are the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•

Not answering the questions (going off topic). Read the question and
understand what you are required to do.
Writing too much but with poor grammar, spelling and punctuation. Keep
to the word count and focus on accuracy.
Not using a variety of sentence structures.
Not writing in sentences or paragraphs.
Not capitalising months, cities, countries and names.
Using SMS spelling.

The total time allowed for the writing test is 50 minutes. The timings for each
section below are recommendations only.

Test Design

Description

Preparation

Part 1

Word level
writing

In the first task the candidate must complete a
form by filling in some basic personal
information. There is no extended writing in
this task (no sentence writing), just individual
words.
Candidates should spend no more than three
minutes on this task.

Since the emphasis in this task is on the
accurate completion of a form, the most
important things to focus on using a capital letter
if needed and spelling.
Common errors are to write in all capital letters
and to write the month as a number instead of
word.
There is an App on the LearnEnglish website
which helps you to practice your spelling.

Part 2

Short text
writing

This task is again about form filling – but this
time the candidate’s response should be in the
form of sentences.
Candidates should spend no more than seven
minutes on this task.

You are asked to write 20-30 words. The focus is
on writing sentences that are on topic and have
accurate grammar, punctuation and spelling.
A common error is to write more than 30 words
and make too many mistakes. Keep to the word
limit and focus on accuracy. Another common
error is to write in all capital letters.

Part 3

Three written
responses to
written input

In this task you will have a social network-type
interaction. You will receive three questions
and need to respond.
Candidates should spend no more than ten
minutes on this task.

Make sure you correctly answer all three
questions and don’t go off topic.
Focus on accurate spelling and punctuation and
write text that is cohesive and coherent.
Keep to the word count of approximately 40
words per answer.

Part 4

Formal and
informal text
writing

This task requires that you write an informal
email to a friend and a more formal email.
Both emails are in reaction to information
about a change.
Candidates should spend no more than twenty
minutes on this task.

For this part, make sure you keep to the word
count of 50 words for the first email and 120-150
words for the second email.
Differentiate your two messages. One should
clearly be an informal email to a friend or close
family member, while the second should clearly
be a formal email to a company.
You are also assessed on how broadly and
accurately you can write so use a wide range of
vocabulary, grammar and cohesive devices.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Sample Writing Tests
Part 1
This test is marked by an Examiner and five pieces of information are awarded
points.

It is worth remembering that this task is the least valuable to the candidate, with
a conversion table being used to provide its contribution to the overall score.
Even if you achieve 5 points, the maximum number of marks available is 3.
Example of a high level answer (5/5) for Part 1:

Sanjay Gupta

May

1990

Mumbai

Hindi

reading

architecture
movies

•
•
•

Uses capital letters for name, month, city and first language.
No spelling errors.
Answers the five questions accurately.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Example of low level answer (1/5) for Part 1:

sanjay gupta
14

1990

mumbai
Hyndy

Reading

Travelling
films

•
•
•
•
•

No capital letters for name.
Does not write the month in full.
No capital letter for city.
Spelling error (Hyndy should by Hindi).
It is ok to write your interests in small or capital letters.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Part 2
This test is marked by an examiner using a specific scale.
There may be one or two questions.

The weighting for this task is even, so the maximum mark available is 5.
5

Likely to be above A2 level

4 [A2.2]

Clearly defined sentences all on topic. Mostly accurate grammar with few serious errors of
vocabulary usage (appropriateness and spelling). The text organisation is completely appropriate.
Attempts at textual cohesion and accurate punctuation.

3 [A2.1]

There are some serious issues with grammar and vocabulary usage. However, the meaning is still
clear. Text is written in complete sentences, organised appropriately for the text form and mostly
accurate punctuation.

2 [A1.2]

Numerous serious errors of grammar and vocabulary usage which make the text sometimes difficult
to follow. A series of phrases, not sentences. Poor punctuation.

1 [A1.1]

There is too little language or the usage is so poor that the text is almost impossible to follow. There
is no clear structure.

Little or no meaningful language or the work is off-topic.

Example of a high level 5/5 response for Part 2.

•
•
•
•

Keeps to the word count (20-30 words).
Clear sentences.
Answers on topic. Replies fully to the input.
Accurate grammar, spelling and punctuation. It is ok to have grammar
and spelling errors and still score 5/5 if the errors are not serious (i.e. the
writing can be understood and the errors are not basic).

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Part 3
The weighting for this task means that the maximum mark available is 7.

Likely to be above the B1 level

4 [B1.2]

Replies fully to each piece of input. The grammar is appropriate to B1 and is mostly accurate, while
there is a good range of vocabulary on general topics. Some errors but these don’t impede
communication. Cohesive & coherent text using an appropriate range of linguistic devices. Few if
any punctuation or spelling errors.

3 [B1.1]

Replies well to at least two of the input texts. An adequate range of Grammar used with no major
errors which impact on understanding. There is good control of elementary vocabulary, though
evidence of some major errors when expressing unfamiliar or complex topics. Cohesive & coherent
text using an adequate range of linguistic devices. Spelling and/or punctuation errors do not impede
communication.

2 [A2.2]

Replies to at least two of the input texts. Many errors which make the text sometimes difficult to
follow. Narrow lexical repertoire with frequent errors making the message difficult to follow. Some
effort to use connecting devices though not always consistent. Errors, including punctuation and
spelling, make the text difficult to follow.

1 [A2.1]

Does not reply to more than one input. There is little language with such poor control as to make the
text almost impossible to follow without considerable effort. Very basic everyday vocabulary. Lacks
cohesion and/or uses linguistic devices inappropriately. Spelling & Punctuation errors make the text
almost impossible to follow.

Little or no meaningful language or the work is off-topic.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Example of a high level 5/5 response for Part 3.

•
•
•
•
•

Keeps to the word count (30-40 words for each answer).
Replies fully to each piece of input.
Sentences follow on from one another in a coherent manner.
Use a range of grammar and vocabulary.
Accurate grammar, punctuation and spelling. It is ok to have errors but
the writing must be understood.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Part 4
The weighting for this task means that the maximum mark available is 9.
5

Likely to be above the B2 level

4 [B2.2]

Task fulfilled in terms of appropriateness of register [i.e. two distinct registers used in the different
messages written]. Evidence of a clear, assured and precise use of a broad range of grammatical
forms used. A good command of a broad lexicon. Good use of idiomatic expressions and no
impeding errors of grammar or lexis. Few if any errors of cohesion or coherence.

3 [B2.1]

Task partially fulfilled in terms of appropriateness of register [i.e. fully appropriate register used in
one of the two different messages written]. An adequate range of grammatical forms used, with no
impeding errors. A good range of lexis with a high level of accuracy. Errors don’t affect the message.
Cohesive & coherent text using an adequate range of linguistic devices. Spelling &/or punctuation
errors evident but these don’t affect the message.

2 [B1.2]

Task not fulfilled in terms of appropriateness of register [i.e. appropriate register not used in either of
the two different messages written] A relatively narrow range of grammatical forms used, with some
impeding errors. The lexical range adequate for the description of situations relating to him/herself.
Some errors which tend to make understanding difficult. Attempts to use linguistic devices though
not always consistent. Errors, including punctuation & spelling, can make understanding difficult.

1 [B1.1]

Task not fulfilled in terms of appropriateness of register [i.e. no evidence of awareness of register]. A
limited range of grammatical forms and vocabulary used and not always with sufficient accuracy.
Errors may make the text difficult to follow. Lacks systematic cohesion and/or uses linguistic devices
inappropriately. Spelling & Punctuation errors can make understanding difficult.

Clearly below B level or work is off topic.

‘Register’ refers to the concept of adapting one’s use of language to conform to
standards or traditions in a given professional or social situation.

The first part is an intimate or casual register used among family members and
close friends. The second part is a formal register used between strangers or in a
technical context.
There should be language to show the test taker understands the difference. In
the second part it is appropriate to address the email more formally.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Example of a high level 5/5 response for Part 4.

Hey Olga, what do you think about the fee increase at the sports club? I can’t believe they
will increase the fees and close early. If you ask me the gym should offer a discount if they
plan to close early. I just signed up and already a fee increase! Not happy!! Maria

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing to complain about the fee increase to take effect from next month and your plan
to close early on Wednesdays.

I have been a member for only three months and feel it is unacceptable to increase the fee so
soon after signing up while also closing early on Wednesdays, which is one of the days when I
like to go to the sports club and meet my personal trainer.

I think you should rethink the fee increase if you are withdrawing services. One alternative is
to implement the fee increase after you have completed the maintenance. Another
alternative is to complete the maintenance after the gym is closed at 10pm.
I look forward to hearing back from you on if my recommendations are acceptable. If not, I
will look to another sports club for my membership.
Regards,
Maria

•
•
•
•

Understands the difference in writing to a friend as opposed to writing to an
authority. The first text is casual and the second text is formal.
Answers the input in a coherent manner. The text makes sense.
Writing is clear, assured and precise using a range of cohesive devices to
make the writing flow.
Grammar and vocabulary is broad and accurate.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

The Aptis Speaking Test
The different parts are designed to assess your speaking ability in different ways,
and test higher processes as the test progresses.

Each question has a maximum response time but candidates can choose to end
the recording before the allotted time up by clicking on a stop button. Note that
if you finish early, you may not have given enough of a range to score at the
highest levels.
The most common issues that cause candidates to lose marks are the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Not doing a proper sound check.
Not speaking clearly.
Not answering the questions.
Giving under-length answers – not using the full amount of time to speak.
Overusing words such as ‘and’ and ‘so’.
Speaking in simple sentence lists.
Not using a variety of sentence structures.

Test Design

Description

Preparation

Part 1

Personal
information
giving

In this task, the candidate is asked to respond
to three questions on personal topics. You are
expected to talk for 30 seconds per question.

To prepare for this task it is a good idea to
practice introducing yourself and talking about
your personal experiences. Think about familiar
topics (e.g. holidays, weekend activities, sports)
and practice giving general information.
At the highest levels, try not to talk in lists but
instead use connecting devices, complex
sentences and a wide range of grammar.

Part 2

Describe and
compare
(concrete
topic)

In this task the candidate is asked to describe
a photograph and then answer two questions
related to the topic illustrated by the photo.
The topic will be concrete in nature (e.g. a
celebration).
The three questions increase in complexity
(from description to opinion). You are
expected to talk for 45 seconds per question.

You should try to be fluent and spontaneous,
showing little sign of effort. Try to vary your
intonation and sentence stress to express finer
shades of meaning.
At the highest levels, errors should be rare and
difficult to spot.

Part 3

Describe,
compare and
speculate

In this task the candidate is asked to compare
two pictures and then answer two questions
related to the topic. The final question is likely
to involve hypothesis and speculation.
You are expected to talk for 45 seconds for
each question.

To prepare for this task, it is a good idea to
practice comparing two different things (e.g. two
cities or two houses). Focus on describing their
advantages and disadvantages.
With speculation it is important to make sure you
are using the correct grammatical structures to
express yourself and your opinion.

Part 4

Discuss an
abstract topic

In the final task there’s a prompt supported by
a picture, though the picture is not central to
answering the task.
The candidate is asked three questions
related to a single topic and is given one
minute to prepare an answer. You can take
notes.
You are expected to talk for 2 minutes.

A common error is to describe the photo. You
will not receive a high score if you describe the
photo. The questions are more abstract (e.g. a
feeling).
Another common error is to go off topic. Focus
on answering each question in a clear, smoothly
flowing, well-structured speech.
To prepare for this task it is a good idea to
practice speaking for two minutes on a certain
topic. Time yourself.
Make sure you practice using your planning time
wisely to structure what you are going to say.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Sound Recording
Make sure your test is taken in a quiet room.

When you click to start the Speaking Test, screen A appears. This allows you to
check the sound recording system on your computer. When you have recorded a
sample of speech, screen B opens. Replay the sound. If you can hear it properly
click on Yes (take me to the exam), if not click one of the No button.

During the microphone check, make sure you say a whole sentence and not just
one or two words. Assessing the quality of the microphone needs more than a
few words.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

If the line takes up all the space, then there is a loud noise (usually a technical
issue) and we are not able to hear the recording. You should alert the
invigilator if the recording bar looks like this:

If the recording is a flat line then the recording is not loud enough. The
microphone may be too far from the mouth. A complete flat line means there
is no recording, which is usually a technical issue. You should alert the
invigilator if the recording looks like this:

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Speaking Scale
5 [C]

Consistently high level of grammatical and lexical range and accuracy; errors are rare and difficult to spot.
Clear, effective pronunciation and intonation; varies intonation and sentence stress correctly to express finer
shades of meaning.
Fluent and spontaneously, with little or no sign of effort.
Clear, smoothly flowing, well-structured speech, with controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors
and cohesive devices.

4 [B2]

Sufficient range and control of grammatical forms and lexis to express ideas without much conspicuous
hesitation, using some complex forms to do so. No mistakes lead to misunderstanding.
Has clear, effective pronunciation and intonation.
Stretches of language with fairly even tempo; can be hesitant when searching for patterns and expressions,
fairly long pauses possible.
Uses a limited number of cohesive devices to link utterances into clear, coherent discourse; may be some
'jumpiness' in long turns.

3 [B1]

Sufficient range and control of grammatical forms and lexis to get by, but there is hesitation, repetition and
difficulty with formulation. A reasonably accurately repertoire of frequently used 'routines', patterns and
words associated with more predictable situations, but major errors still occur when expressing more
complex thoughts.
Pronunciation is intelligible though the accent means that occasional mispronunciations occur.
Keeps going comprehensibly; pausing for grammatical and lexical planning and repair is very evident in
longer stretches of production.
Links a series of shorter, discrete simple elements into a connected, linear sequence of points.

2 [A2]

Control of basic grammatical forms and lexis, but may have to compromise the message and take time to
formulate structures. Uses some simple structures and lexis correctly, but still systematically makes basic
mistakes (e.g. tends to mix up tenses and forgets to mark agreement; sufficient vocabulary for the expression
of basic communicative needs only). Meaning clear.
Pronunciation is generally clear enough to be understood despite a noticeable accent and occasional
difficulty for the listener.
Constructs phrases on familiar topics despite very noticeable hesitation and false starts.
Links groups of words with simple connectors like 'and', 'but' and 'because'.

1 [A1]

Very basic range of simple forms with only limited control of a few simple grammatical structures and
sentence patterns in a learned repertoire. Basic vocabulary of isolated words and phrases related to particular
concrete situations.
Pronunciation of a very limited range of words and phrases can be understood with some effort.
Manages very short, isolated utterances, with much pausing to search for expressions, to articulate less
familiar words, and to repair communication.
Little attempt to link words or groups of words, when it happens uses very basic linear connectors like 'and' or
'then'.

No or incomprehensible or irrelevant answer

The key things to notice here are:
•
•
•
•

•

Grammar accuracy.
Vocabulary accuracy.
Good Pronunciation.
Fluency – the fewer hesitations and stops the better, but don’t talk too
quickly.
Good structure – it shouldn’t sound like you are rambling with different
bits of unconnected speech.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Part 1
In this task you first hear (and see) the question. Only box A appears on the
screen.

When this is finished you hear (and see) the first question (Box B). When the
time to record comes the recording box appears immediately below the question
box. This tells you the amount of time you have been recording for (in this case
just over 4 seconds) and the total time for the task (in this case 30 seconds).
As each new question appears, the same procedure is followed (boxes C and D)

When your response to the final question has been recorded, the test
automatically moves on to the next task. You do not need to click on any button
to make this happen.
Note: All Aptis Speaking questions follow this set of procedures. In the following
screenshots we have not included the recording boxes, but they will appear in
each case when the question has been read.
© British Council 2013

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Part 2
In this task you first hear the contents of the top box – telling you about the task.

When this has been heard, the first of the three questions appears. When this
question has been heard the recording box appears and you should begin
speaking. You will have up to 45 seconds for your answer.

When that question has been recorded, the next question automatically appears.
Again, as soon as it has been heard, the recording box appears and the recording
begins. This question also allows for a response up to 45 seconds.

When the recording time for the second question is done, the final question
appears. When you have heard the question, the recording box appears and you
again have 45 seconds to respond.

When your response to the third question has been recorded, the test
automatically moves on to the next task. You do not need to click on any button
to make this happen.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Part 3
In this task you will again hear the contents of the top box.

When the recording time for the second question is done, the final question
appears. When you have heard the question, the recording box appears and you
again have 45 seconds to respond.

When your response to the third question has been recorded, the test
automatically moves on to the next task. You do not need to click on any button
to make this happen.
© British Council 2013

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Task 4
In this task you will yet again hear the contents of the top box.

When this has been heard, you will be read (and can see) the three questions.
When the questions have been heard, the voice tells you that you have one
minute to prepare your responses. You will also be told that you may take notes.
It is important to take notes as it will help you in organising and remembering
your responses. Rather than writing out exactly what you want to say, make brief
notes and use these to help structure your speech.

There is a minute’s silence as you prepare. A progress bar on the screen will
indicate how long you have left. When this time has passed, the message at the
bottom (You now have two minutes to talk) appears, as will the recording box.
You may speak until the recording automatically stops.

Aptis Candidate Guide (Computer Version)

Example of note taking for Part 4
1. Tell me about a personal achievement or award you have received.
•
•
•
•
•

Exam certificate
At school

Highest score in class
Teacher very pleased
Parents proud

2. How did you feel about this achievement?
•
•
•

Surprised

Exam was very difficult

Feelings of satisfaction and relief

3. Do awards encourage people to do their best?
•

Awards: a good thing

o Encourage excellence

•

o Evidence/recognition of success

Awards: a bad thing

o Make some people too competitive

o Can create disappointment if you don’t win
When your response to the three questions has been recorded, the test
automatically finishes.

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