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hi i got twice 6 during my speaking test but i need 6,5. any tips? it would be very useful. thanks a lot

Hi Verzillino,
There are a few things you can think about:
1. Fluency - Are you pausing too much? Probably not, but you might have moved to the other extreme and not be pausing enough, to allow the listener time to consider your points.
2. Coherence - Are you developing your arguments clearly? Make sure that your sentences are in a logical order.
3. Vocabulary - Add some specialised words to your answers. This is especially easy with topics like work/study and hobbies. Each of these has its own vocabulary, e.g. puck in ice hockey, ledger in accounting, equation in maths.
4. Grammar - The tough one! Get rid of as many basic mistakes as you can. Then examine your complex sentences for errors too.
5. Pronunciation - Don't just speak clearly and with intonation. Vary the speed of your speech as well, slowing when you are making important points.
Hope that helps a little!
David

yes very useful: but i used expressions like get cold feet or make ends meet, i even used the term quid. is it possible that Pronunciation lowers my score? i am from italy. do you think that it is useful for the speaking test watching the bbc international channel?
thanks so much

Hello!
Remember that you also have to fulfill all the requirements to get a particular band score, not only the specific ones that distinguish a 6 from a 7, for example. My personal experience with some Italian speakers is that they speak too quickly, which can affect understanding. Sometimes a little slower is better!
All the best,
David

thank you very much indeed.
i have taken a peek to youtube videos where you explained a lot of useful things. can you give me some advice for the correct use of linking words?
have a nice sunday

Hello!
Linking words are easy! The key thing is to use a wide variety - try not to repeat any of them more than once! I try to teach my students to 'experiment' a little, e.g. by using 'however' and other suitable connectives in the middle of sentences - e.g. The use of pesticides, however, may have long term negative consequences.
Insider tip: Find out what connectives other people are using and then use different ones!
All the best,
David