Table 1 The Component and Structure of TOPE

1

Reading-aloud and retelling

One student at a time

5 m

20%

-Can read English essays/stories aloud correctly in appropriate pronunciation and intonation.

-Can retell the audio/video materials in a coherent, complete, standard and appropriate way.

-Can be confident in using retelling strategies

2

Presentation and discussion

Two or three students in a group

18 m

45%

-Can give brief information about own family, living conditions and interest, etc.

- Can give clear description and presentation according to the given visual or written prompt (e.g., picture, charts or photos) in a thoughtful, fluent, logic and well-structured way.

-Can converse comfortably and appropriately on relevant topics. Can convey explicit ideas and opinions and respond to others’ argument convincingly.

-Can communicative effectively by employing both verbal and non-verbal strategies.

3

Impromptu speech and Q&A

One student at a time

5 m

35%

-Can produce clear, smoothly flowing, and well-structured speech with an effective logical structure.

-Can respond to questions relevant to the topic adequately and precisely.

-Can use speech and Q&A strategies appropriately.