This section gives you an opportunity to bring up ideas you couldn’t cover within the 10-minute presentation, making it vital for earning any additional marks you may have missed. Questions aren’t predetermined, and the examiner has complete freedom over the types of questions they may ask.
Examples of commonly asked questions include:
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You said…How does this work reflect the writer’s message about the GI?
Tip: Do not repeat your answer word-by-word from the presentation for questions asking for clarification. Try to add more on the spot.
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You said… Where do you see evidence of that?
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You said…Why do you think the writer uses that technique to convey the GI?
Tip: Know the strength and the nature of a particular authorial choice to argue why that technique is the most appropriate choice in a certain context.
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You said… What kind of target audience did the writer have in mind?
Tip: Though not required, you can refer to the target audience in your presentation.
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You said… How does this work reflect the context in which it was written?
Tip: Research about the context of the time period and the context of the author’s life in which the work was written to prepare for such context-type questions.
While preparing for the IO questions is essential, managing the timing of your responses is equally important to make the most out of the 5-minute period.
Here are some additional tips:
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Aim to spend 1-1.5 minutes on each response; this pacing allows you to address 4-5 questions. Keep answers concise to give the examiner more opportunities to inquire about areas in need of further support.
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If a question is unclear, ask for clarification or request a rephrasing politely.
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Take a brief moment to organize your thoughts before answering—don’t rush into your response.
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As you approach 4.5 minutes, avoid starting a new response, as 30 seconds is insufficient for a complete answer.
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Keep your speaking style and tone consistent with your presentation.
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Be the expert of your extract. The examiner can ask how a certain part of the extract which you have not discussed relates to the GI.