KOÇ UNIVERSITY-ELC
GRADING SPEAKING TASK: DISCUSSION
For students
ELC uses standard speaking rubrics to grade students’ spoken production. Students are informed about the
expectations through the overall assessment information, rubrics and class materials. In addition to these
sources, we would like to provide some additional information to make our assessment practices transparent to
our students.
During the discussion task, students are provided with a task sheet which includes the following:
• The prompt: This should be the main topic of the discussion; therefore, it is important that students
answer it fully and start the discussion by answering the prompt.
• The follow-up questions: These questions aim to help students further develop ideas in relation to the
prompt. In other words, they should be used to generate other ideas related to the prompt.
- Students may or may not choose to use these questions. They may come up with their own follow-
up questions.
- If students choose to use the follow-up questions, they do not need to answer them in order.
During the discussion task, students are required to follow the guidelines given below. If these are not followed
carefully, the grade will be affected negatively.
GUIDELINES FOR THE SPEAKING TASK
Do the following for an effective discussion:
• Focus on the prompt and make sure you answer it fully.
• Speak clearly and make sure your message is understood.
• Provide relevant information without going off-topic.
• Use explanations and/or examples to support your opinions.
• Make sure to use the given time fully and effectively.
• Organize your thoughts logically and express them in a coherent manner.
• Respond to the opinions and comments of other group members with further comments/questions.
• Take turns to interact with each other and invite your partner(s) to speak.
• Use the grammar and vocabulary that you have learned in the course.
• Use group discussion language that you have learned such as taking turns, expressing opinions, and
giving or asking for clarification.
• Show confidence in your tone and avoid unnecessary pauses or filler words.
• Be aware of your body language, maintain eye contact, and use appropriate gestures.
Do NOT do the following in a discussion:
• Do not go off topic.
• Do not read the questions aloud when your instructor informs you that you can start.
• Do not read your notes during the discussion.
• Do not dominate the discussion. Every member of your group needs to participate equally in the
discussion.
• Do not repeat the same ideas using the same language as your peers.
• Do not end the discussion before the time given is up.
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