What is essential for effective communication in the Speaking assessment?

Fluency and coherence are fundamental components of effective communication, particularly in a speaking assessment. Fluency refers to the ability to speak smoothly and effortlessly, which helps the speaker convey their message clearly without unnecessary pauses or hesitations. This enables the listener to easily understand the content being communicated.

Coherence relates to the organization of thoughts and ideas in a logical manner. When a speaker presents their ideas in a coherent way, it enhances clarity and helps the audience follow along. This is especially important during assessments, where the evaluator is assessing not just what is being said, but also how well the ideas are communicated.

In contrast, the use of technical jargon may confuse the audience if they are not familiar with the terms used, while excessive body language can be distracting and detract from the spoken content. Reading from notes may also hinder a natural flow of conversation, as it can interrupt the connection with the audience and reduce the opportunity for spontaneous expression. Thus, fluency and coherence are paramount for successful communication in any speaking assessment.