Conversations about General and Specific Topics

Understand the format of the Optional Speaking Test, which includes general conversation and two specific topic conversations.
For mastering general conversation topics, familiarise yourself with everyday subjects such as home, school, hobbies, holidays, and current events.
For specific conversation topics, choose two topics you are interested in or have knowledge about.
These topics could range from historical events in Indonesia, to Indonesian art and literature, environmental issues, or current Indonesian politics.

Build a strong vocabulary around both general and your chosen specific topics.
Make sure you understand and use the correct sentence structure and grammar rules in Indonesian.
For boosting your confidence in vocabulary and grammar, it’s helpful to immerse yourself in Indonesian media such as newspapers, films, and books on your chosen specific topics.

Regular practice is crucial. Immersion, speaking with native speakers, and using language learning platforms can be beneficial.
Prepare and revisit a list of possible questions that could come up in the test and practice answering them in Indonesian.
Further more, practice your listening skills. During the test, you will need to understand the examiner’s questions and respond appropriately.

Try not to panic, take a deep breath before you start speaking. Your confidence will increase as your vocabulary and understanding of the language improves.
Speak clearly and at a reasonable pace. Remember, it is not a race. It’s okay to take a brief pause to collect your thoughts before you answer.

Be aware of Indonesian culture, as this might influence the conversation. Is your understanding of the topics at hand culturally sensitive and representative?
It’s also good to keep in mind the formal and informal ways of addressing people in Indonesian culture. Different levels of politeness exist in the language.

Simulating the test situation as practice can be helpful.
Review any feedback given during preparation and focus on continuous improvement.
Be curious and enjoy the learning journey. Good luck!