How to Succeed in the DELF B2 Production Orale: Complete Guide

delf production orale what to expect

The production orale section of the DELF B2 is your moment to speak up — literally. This tutorial will walk you through exactly what to expect, how to prepare, and how to approach the speaking tasks step by step.

We’ll go over the two parts of the exam: the monologue suivi (structured solo presentation) and the interaction (a back-and-forth with the examiner). Each section tests different skills, but they all boil down to the same goal: showing you can speak clearly, logically, and fluently in French.

Let’s dive in.


1. What Is the DELF B2 Production Orale?

You’ll have 30 minutes to prepare, followed by about 15 minutes of speaking time, split into:

  1. Monologue Suivi (5–7 minutes)
    You give a solo presentation on a societal topic based on a short document.

  2. Interaction (10 minutes)
    You discuss the same topic with the examiner, who challenges you with questions or opposing views.

You are graded on clarity, fluency, vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and how well you organize your thoughts.


2. Mastering the Monologue Suivi (Task 1)

Think of this like preparing a mini TED Talk. You want to speak with a clear purpose, good structure, and strong arguments. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Understand the Document

The first thing to do is understand what the document is about. Ask yourself:

  • What is the general theme?

  • What are the main ideas?

Example: If the topic is le télétravail, the text might mention productivity, mental health, and work-life balance.

Step 2: Find the Problem or Question

Every monologue should respond to a clear problématique (problem statement).

Example: Le télétravail est-il une solution durable pour l’avenir du travail ?

Step 3: Build Your Plan

Tell your audience what you will cover. Use a simple structure:

  • Tout d’abord… Ensuite… Enfin…

This shows examiners that your ideas are organized and logical.

Step 4: Express Your Opinion Clearly

Speak with confidence. Use opinion phrases:

  • Je pense que… / Il me semble que… / Selon moi…

Then support your opinion with concrete, personal examples. This is essential at B2 level.

Step 5: Keep a Logical Flow

Your monologue needs three parts:

  • Introduction: present the topic and your problem statement

  • Development: give 2–3 arguments with examples

  • Conclusion: summarize and suggest a solution or reflection

Don’t forget to use connectors:

  • Premièrement, Deuxièmement, En revanche, Pour conclure…


3. Navigating the Interaction (Task 2)

Now it’s time to discuss! The examiner will respond to what you said. This part simulates a debate or casual argument.

Your Goals:

  • Confirm and defend your opinion: Je maintiens que…

  • Add new examples or reasons: Je voudrais préciser que…

  • Use contrast and nuance: C’est vrai que…, mais…

  • React politely but firmly: Je comprends votre point de vue, cependant…

Example Exchange:

Examiner: Mais n’est-ce pas injuste pour ceux qui ne peuvent pas télétravailler ?
You: C’est un bon point, mais il est possible d’adapter les conditions pour les différents types de travail.

The key here is to show that you can listen, respond, and defend your point of view in real time.


4. What Are Examiners Looking For?

Here’s exactly what the examiners expect to see and hear:

Realisation of the Task

  • You identify the theme and develop a clear argument

  • You follow a plan: intro, development, conclusion

  • You engage in meaningful conversation

Coherence and Cohesion

  • You organize your speech into logical parts

  • You use connectors to link your ideas smoothly

Vocabulary (Lexique)

  • You use B2-level vocabulary that fits the topic

  • You avoid repetition and use synonyms

  • You use idiomatic phrases naturally

Grammar (Morphosyntaxe)

  • You mix simple and complex sentences

  • You correctly use tenses: passé composé, imparfait, plus-que-parfait, conditionnel, subjonctif

  • You match genders and numbers accurately

Pronunciation and Fluency

  • Your speech is clear, with natural rhythm and intonation

  • You speak at a steady pace, not too fast or too slow

  • You self-correct when needed

delf b2 production orale how to guide infographic

5. Practice Tips That Work

Here are practical ways to get better:

  • Record yourself answering real exam questions. Listen back and improve.

  • Simulate the exam with a partner or language coach.

  • Create vocabulary maps for common themes (environment, media, health).

  • Watch French debates and pause to repeat key phrases.

  • Shadow practice: repeat after native speakers to train fluency.


6. Essential Expressions for the Speaking Test

PurposeExample Expressions
Giving opinionJe pense que…, Il me semble que…, À mon avis
Structuring argumentsTout d’abord, Ensuite, Enfin
Contrasting ideasCependant, En revanche, Pourtant
ReactingJe suis d’accord, Je ne suis pas convaincu(e)
ConcludingPour résumer, En conclusion, Ainsi

Learn these expressions like a toolkit. They’ll help you think faster and sound more natural.


Final Thoughts

The production orale is your chance to show that you can think, speak, and argue in French. It’s about structured thinking, clear articulation, and confident delivery.

Focus on preparing ideas for common topics, expanding your vocabulary, and mastering transition words. The more you practice in real conditions, the better you’ll perform on exam day.

 

Scroll to Top