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In MET Speaking Task 1 you have 60 seconds to describe a scene with no separate preparation timer in the real exam. Start with a one-sentence overview of the setting, then describe two or three people and actions from foreground to background.
A reliable 60-second structure for Task 1
| Time | Move | Useful language |
|---|---|---|
| 0–10s | Whole-scene overview | “This picture shows a busy [place] on a [daytime/season], with several people…” |
| 10–35s | Foreground focus (1–2 people) | “In the foreground on the left, a woman is [verb]-ing… Next to her…” |
| 35–52s | Background & surroundings | “In the background, two customers are waiting near the counter, and there are…” |
| 52–60s | Atmosphere wrap-up | “Overall, everyone looks focused and the place seems lively and well organized.” |
Original MET Speaking Task 1 practice scenes
Scene 1 · Neighbourhood train platform
Prompt: Describe the train station scene you see on screen. Talk about the setting, the people, and what they are doing (60 seconds). Sample response: “This picture shows a busy commuter train platform in the morning. On the right side, a train has just pulled into the station and its doors are open. In the foreground, a conductor in a dark uniform is checking a clipboard while speaking to an older passenger with a blue suitcase. Near the centre of the platform, a father and a young boy are walking briskly toward the open carriage door. In the background on the left, two commuters are standing by a small kiosk buying coffee. Overall, the station looks orderly and everyone seems eager to board on time.”
Explore this resource →Scene 2 · Weekend farmers’ market
Prompt: Describe what is happening at the outdoor market. Include details about the stalls, shoppers, and activities (60 seconds). Focus note: Contrast the vendor weighing apples in the foreground with the baker handing bread across the counter on the right.
Explore this resource →Questions, answered
How do Tasks 1, 2 and 3 connect in MET Speaking?
Tasks 1–3 form Stage 1 (60 seconds each) on a shared theme: Task 1 asks you to describe a picture, Task 2 asks about a personal experience related to that setting, and Task 3 asks for your opinion on a related question.