Overview
This lecture provides a comprehensive guide to the updated Duolingo English Test, covering every question type, strategies for high performance, scoring criteria, and practical test-taking tips.
Read and Select
- Identify if a displayed word is a real English word or not within 5 seconds per word.
- Only select "yes" if you know the meaning; avoid guessing.
- Partial grading and negative marking apply, but a few mistakes won't result in zero.
- This section contributes to literacy and comprehension scores.
Fill in the Blanks
- Complete an incomplete word in a sentence using vocabulary knowledge and context.
- Each set contains 6–9 sentences, and you have 20 seconds per question.
- Answers must be correct and spelled accurately; no partial marks per item.
- Focus on building vocabulary; practice with time limits.
Read and Complete
- Fill in missing words in a short passage, usually about 100 words, within 3 minutes.
- Skim the entire passage, focusing on the title and first/last sentences for context.
- Use contextual and grammatical clues; use American spelling.
- Scoring is based on overall performance, not all-or-nothing.
Listen and Type
- Type verbatim what is heard in the audio; up to three playbacks allowed.
- Pay attention to articles, prepositions, and punctuation.
- Both statements and questions may be dictated; review grammar and punctuation.
- Proofread if time allows; practice for accuracy and speed.
Interactive Reading
- Two passages, each with five question types: fill in the blank (choose word), sentence completion, highlight information, main idea, and title selection.
- Use context clues, synonyms, and sentence connections.
- Manage time efficiently across various question types.
Interactive Listening & Summary
- Participate in a simulated conversation and answer gap-fill and multiple-choice questions.
- Answers are typically two to four words; keep them concise.
- After listening, write a short 75-second summary, paraphrasing the scenario and outcome.
- Structure summary: introduce the situation, include details, state the outcome.
Writing: Describe a Photo
- Describe a given photo in 1 minute; start with a general summary sentence.
- Add details about actions (present continuous), locations (prepositional phrases), and include speculation (modal verbs).
- Use descriptive language: adjectives, adverbs, and prepositions for a higher score.
Interactive Writing
- Two parts: first, respond to a prompt in 5 minutes; second, respond to a follow-up in 3 minutes.
- Use a clear structure: topic sentence, main ideas with explanations/examples, and conclusion.
- Advanced vocabulary and time management are crucial.
Extended Speaking Tasks
- Three tasks: describe a photo (speak 90 seconds), two written prompts, and one oral prompt.
- Speak for as long as possible to show off your English.
- Answer all prompts and expand with explanations, examples, and opinions.
- Use transition words and respond with correct grammar.
Interactive Speaking (New)
- Respond to 6–8 quick questions on 1–2 everyday topics.
- Each response: up to 35 seconds; speak naturally and extend your answers.
- Use the OREO framework: Opinion, Reason, Example, Outcome.
- Scored on fluency, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Partial grading — Points are deducted per mistake, not all-or-nothing scoring.
- Context clues — Hints within text or speech to determine meaning.
- Prepositional phrases — Phrases indicating position (e.g., in front of, behind).
- OREO framework — Structure for extended answers: Opinion, Reason, Example, Outcome.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice daily with official or third-party platforms under real time limits.
- Build vocabulary using word lists and flashcards.
- Memorize useful sentence starters and structures for writing/speaking.
- Review American spelling, advanced vocabulary, and transition words.
- Take full-length practice tests to build stamina and familiarity.