Unlock FCE Speaking Part 3: 10 Pro Tips for the Collaborative Task

After covering FCE Speaking Part 1 and FCE Speaking Part 2, we now focus on the collaborative task, Part 3 of the Cambridge B2 First speaking test. This interactive section is where you truly demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with another person—a crucial skill for both the exam and real-world situations.

Why Part 3 Matters

In the B2 Exam Speaking Part 3 you and your partner have about three minutes: two minutes discussing visuals the examiner gives you, followed by one minute trying to reach a decision. It tests your ability to discuss, express opinions, agree, disagree, speculate and evaluate – the very same discourse skills you will need in higher-level Cambridge C1 Speaking and in written tasks such as an opinion essay or formal e-mail.

The 10 Essential Moves

What to do	Why it works	Useful language / action
1. Memorise the two-plus-one timing 2 min chat ➜ 1 min decision	Keeps you focused on both instructions so you show full task achievement.	"Let's go through each option quickly, then decide."
2. Start with a mini-plan Sketch a quick order (clockwise, most expensive ➜ cheapest…) before you speak.	Gives structure and prevents rambling – good for the Discourse Management band.	"Shall we begin with public transport and finish with bikes?"
3. Invite your partner in Ask questions instead of monologuing.	Examiners reward real collaboration.	"How about you? What do you think of…?"
4. Listen actively & build Echo key words, react, extend.	Shows you can handle spoken interaction – a core aim of Cambridge Assessment English.	"Really? I hadn't thought of that. Maybe we could…"
5. Disagree diplomatically Use softeners to keep the dialogue friendly.	Demonstrates mature control of the English language.	"I see your point, but don't you think…?"
6. Keep the goal visible Paraphrase the question midway.	Signals to the examiner you're on task.	"Remember, we're choosing the best transport for a week-long tour."
7. Use thinking-time fillers Avoid silence while you organise ideas.	Maintains fluency.	"That's a good question… well, let me think…"
8. Clarify & repair Ask for repetition or definitions when needed.	Shows high-level communication strategy.	"Sorry, could you explain what you mean by car-pooling?"
9. Seal the deal in the last 15 seconds Summarise agreement (or near-agreement).	Proves you followed the collaborative process to the end.	"So, we both agree the bus is cheapest and lets us see more – shall we choose that?"
10. Practise across papers Rotate FCE practice tests with Listening, Reading and Use of English or FCE writing drills.	Recycling lexis from one paper enriches another; for example, travel collocations from a Writing B2 Cambridge essay are handy here.	Use an English Practice Test app to "Test Your English" daily.

Language Bank for Quick Wins

• Agreeing: That's true / Exactly / I couldn't agree more
• Partly agreeing: I see what you mean, but…
• Speculating: They might not have enough time / It could be cheaper to…
• Decision phrases: All things considered / If we had to choose one…

Practice Routine that Works

1. Pair up online and simulate the task with timer apps or official FCE practice tests.
2. Record & transcribe; run the script through an AI writing correction tool (great preparation for a CAE practice test too).
3. Recycle vocabulary: transfer travel verbs into a formal e-mail, turn your discussion notes into an Essay B2, then upgrade it for an Essay C1.
4. Finish with a micro-quiz on collocations in a Use of English gap-fill – perfect daily "Test English" habit for any English Test.

Sample Conversation Structure

Candidate A: "Let's look at these holiday options. Shall we start with the beach holiday?"

Candidate B: "Yes, that looks interesting. I think it would be relaxing, but maybe a bit boring after a few days. What do you think?"

Candidate A: "I see what you mean. Although I like swimming, I prefer more active holidays. How about the city break?"

Candidate B: "That might be more interesting because there are museums and restaurants. However, it could be expensive..."

Candidate A: "Actually, I hadn't thought about the cost. Good point! Remember, we need to decide which would be best for a family with teenagers."

Candidate B: "In that case, I think the adventure holiday would be ideal because it offers activities that would keep teenagers engaged. Would you agree?"

Candidate A: "Yes, I think we both agree the adventure holiday would be best for a family with teenagers because it offers something for everyone and would keep them entertained."

Final Thoughts

Mastering the collaborative task equips you not only for Cambridge exams but for real-world teamwork. Combine the tips above with steady Listening drills and informal e-mail exchanges, and you'll be ready to face both the FCE Speaking room and the future C1 Exam with confidence.

To complete your FCE speaking preparation, make sure to review our guides on FCE Speaking Part 1 and FCE Speaking Part 2. For written exam preparation, check our essay writing guide.