Signposting in the IO be like: ‘Firstly… Secondly… Lastly… Please stop asking me questions.
Why it matters
The discussion section of the IO is designed to check if you can listen, respond, and expand ideas naturally.
Unlike the presentation, you don’t control the questions.
This makes it the most “unpredictable” part of the exam, but also the best chance to prove you’re a flexible and confident communicator.
1. Listen carefully to examiner’s follow-ups
The examiner’s job is to test the depth of your understanding.
If you rush or half-listen, you risk missing the point and giving an irrelevant or shallow answer.
Careful listening shows respect and helps you tailor your response directly to the question.
Tip
Take one or two seconds before responding; silence is fine.
It shows you’re processing.
Example
Examiner: “Why do you think the character felt powerless in this situation?”
Candidate: “I think she felt powerless because the society she lived in valued men’s opinions over women’s. That connects directly to the theme of social organization.”
2. Answer with PEE (Point → Evidence → Explanation)
Strong answers have layers.
A single-sentence response sounds vague.
Using PEE ensures you give a clear argument (Point), support it (Evidence), and explain why it matters (Explanation).
This structure pushes you into higher mark bands.
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What is the purpose of the discussion section in the IO?
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Note
The discussion section of the Individual Oral (IO) is a crucial part of the English B exam that tests your ability to engage in spontaneous conversation. Unlike the presentation, where you can prepare in advance, the discussion requires you to think on your feet and respond naturally to the examiner's questions.
The discussion section typically lasts 5-6 minutes
It follows your 3-4 minute presentation
The examiner will ask questions related to your presentation and the prescribed themes
DefinitionIndividual Oral (IO)A spoken assessment in the IB English B course that consists of a prepared presentation followed by a spontaneous discussion with the examiner.
AnalogyThink of the discussion section like a tennis match - you need to be ready to return whatever the examiner serves, adapting your responses in real-time.
