AO9: Use spoken Standard English effectively in speeches and presentations

The idea

AO9 rewards control of spoken Standard English when delivering a speech or presentation. Standard English refers to the grammar and vocabulary expected in formal contexts, not accent. Regional pronunciation is perfectly acceptable, but non-standard verb forms such as "we was" or "they done" weaken clarity. "Effectively" covers grammatical accuracy and appropriate vocabulary and register in speech. For example, in a presentation to your class you might say "Firstly, the evidence shows..." using precise terms rather than vague fillers. Prepare by rehearsing aloud, checking subject–verb agreement and consistent tense, and replacing fillers such as "like" or "stuff" with exact terminology. Keep AO9 distinct from AO7, which assesses presentation skills such as audibility, pace, structure and non-verbal delivery.

What earns the marks

• Speaks with grammatical accuracy in Standard English, maintaining subject–verb agreement, consistent tense and correct pronoun use throughout the presentation.
• Uses vocabulary and register suited to a formal spoken context, choosing precise words rather than vague fillers or slang.
• Avoids non-standard forms such as "we was" or "they done", using standard alternatives such as "we were" and "they did".
• Adapts spoken language to purpose and audience, for example by defining technical terms or varying vocabulary when addressing peers or adults.
• Sustains Standard English consistently across the whole speech, including under the pressure of live delivery, rather than only in a prepared opening.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Confusing accent with Standard English.

  Put it right: Keep your natural accent and focus on grammar, vocabulary and clarity.

• Writing a full script and reading it word for word, which flattens delivery and reduces eye contact.

  Put it right: Use cue cards with key points and rehearse aloud so phrasing sounds spontaneous.

• Using vague fillers such as "like" or "stuff" when thinking aloud.

  Put it right: Pause silently or use a planned signpost such as "Moving on…" instead.

• Treating AO9 as a test of audibility, pace or structure.

  Put it right: Focus AO9 preparation on grammatical accuracy, vocabulary and register in speech.

Exam tips

• Rehearse aloud with a timer and record yourself; listen for non-standard verb forms and unclear endings, then correct them.
• Mark your cue cards with reminders of standard forms you tend to slip on, such as "we were" rather than "we was".
• Prepare a short opening and closing sentence you can deliver fluently to settle nerves and frame your presentation.