Expression Orale
Also known as: TEF speaking · TCF speaking · French speaking section
Expression Orale is the speaking section of the TEF Canada and TCF Canada exams. Candidates respond to scenario-based prompts — typically asking for information or convincing someone of a position — under time pressure. The section is scored on grammar, vocabulary range, pronunciation, fluency, and task completion.
TEF Canada Expression Orale
2 tasks, 15 minutes total. Section A: ask for information (5 min, 1 minute prep). Section B: convince/argue (10 min, 2 minutes prep). Scored 0-450.
TCF Canada Expression Orale
3 tasks, ~15 minutes. Task 1: introduce yourself (2-3 min). Task 2: ask for information (5-6 min). Task 3: argue and convince (5-6 min). Each task scored 1-6, total 0-20.
Common scoring penalties
Frequent French learner penalties: short/missing nasal vowels (ɛ̃, ɑ̃, ɔ̃), weak liaison, anglicized R, and lack of register adaptation between formal and informal scenarios.
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