Cambridge B2 First: Speaking Part 2 – Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Catherine Jones
- Feb 27
- 2 min read
First, here's a quick overview of part 2 so you know what to expect.
How it works
The examiner shows you two photos and a question.
You speak for 1 minute about your photos.
Your partner listens and then speaks for 30 seconds about your photos.
Then, the examiner shows your partner two photos and a question and they will speak for 1 minute about their photos.
You respond for 30 seconds to your partner’s ideas.
Time:
1 minute for the long turn + 30 seconds for the follow-up
Task type:
Compare two photos highlighting similarities and differences
Answer a short written question
Give your opinion and react naturally to your partner
Materials:
Two colour photos
One written question
Now, what about common mistakes and how to fix them
Mistake 1: Just describing the photos
What happens: Students talk about photo one, then photo two, like a list.
Why it’s a problem: Examiners want to see comparison, organisation, and opinion, not a catalogue.
How to fix it: Connect the photos from the start and show similarities/differences.
Key phrases:
In both pictures, you can see…
The two photos show…
One thing they have in common is…
In the first photo…, whereas in the second…
While one picture shows…, the other shows…
Mistake 2: Forgetting the question
What happens: Students describe photos but ignore the written question.
Why it’s a problem: Fluency matters less if you’re not answering the task.
How to fix it: Keep the question in mind, react, and give your opinion.
Key phrases:
They might be feeling…
I think this situation would be more enjoyable because…
Personally, I’d prefer to be in…
This activity would appeal to me more because…
Mistake 3: Stopping too soon
What happens: Students finish at 30 seconds instead of 1 minute.
Why it’s a problem: Examiners want to see your ability to develop ideas.
How to fix it: Expand ideas slightly, link them together, practise with a timer.
Linking phrases:
Also / Another thing is…
As well as that…
On the other hand / However…
What’s more…
Other Cambridge Speaking tips:
Record yourself. Even 5 minutes a day improves fluency and confidence.
Listen carefully to your partner for your 30-second turn. Agree, add, or comment:
I agree with what you said about…
I also think that…
That’s interesting, I hadn’t thought of that
Treat it like a mini-conversation, not a speech.
Want a full step-by-step guide?
My Cambridge B2 First speaking support pack covers all four parts of the exam. You’ll get:
An overview of each part of the speaking exam
What examiners are listening for (and how to impress them)
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Useful phrases for each part
Sample questions to practise with a partner or teacher
Clear, structured tips so you feel confident under pressure
Best for students who want to feel calm, prepared, and fluent in the exam.
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