As a Polish teacher specialising in bilingualism, I often see my students grow tense the moment the examiner starts throwing questions at them during the Leaving Certificate Polish Oral exam. But remember, głowa do góry! (chin up!). Here are some practical pointers to help you respond confidently and accurately:
- Before crafting an answer, make sure you truly hear the question. It’s easy to get lost in your own thoughts or rehearsed responses, so focus on the examiner’s words. If anything sounds unclear, politely ask for clarification with a quick, “Czy mógłby/mogłaby Pan/Pani powtórzyć?” (Could you please repeat that?).
- Whenever you’re asked something substantial, like the impact of a historical event on a poem, structure your thoughts. For instance, you could say, “Najpierw krótko opowiem o głównym motywie, a potem przejdę do kontekstu społecznego” (First, I’ll briefly talk about the main theme, then move on to the social context). This approach reassures both you and the examiner that you have a clear plan.
- Even if you’re feeling butterflies, a warm smile and relaxed posture can go a long way. Think of it as non-verbal proof that you’re prepared. Confidence often comes across in how you carry yourself, so take a steady breath before speaking.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll find that answering questions can be an enjoyable exchange rather than a nerve-racking ordeal. After all, it’s your chance to shine and share your well-earned knowledge!
