TestDaF Speaking (Mündlicher Ausdruck) Task 4 – Taking a stance in a discussion
Task 4 of the Oral Expression is about: taking a stance in a discussion. Here’s how to respond to the situation correctly.
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Key takeaways
- You take a stance on a question in a seminar discussion.
- Weigh up arguments and formulate your justified opinion.
What this part tests
Task 4 tests whether you can take a stance on a question in a discussion (e.g. in a seminar).
You weigh up arguments for and against, justify them and formulate your own justified position.
What matters is a clear structure (arguments, weighing up, opinion), good reasons and appropriate, somewhat more formal language.
How to approach it
- 1
Grasp the discussion question.
- 2
Name an argument for and one against.
- 3
Justify the arguments briefly.
- 4
Weigh up and formulate your own position.
- 5
Close with a clear conclusion.
Example task with answer
A short example in the same format: the situation and a model answer.
In einem Seminar wird diskutiert: „Sollte das Studium kostenlos sein?" Nehmen Sie Stellung.
Model answer:
Why? The answer weighs up arguments (einerseits/andererseits), justifies them and formulates a clear, justified position – exactly what Task 4 expects.
Practice: test yourself
In einem Seminar wird diskutiert: „Sollten Prüfungen nur noch online stattfinden?"
Which contribution takes a stance well?
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Common mistakes
Consider both sides, not just your opinion.
Justify your position with arguments.
Take a clear position at the end.
In a seminar discussion you speak somewhat more formally.
Tips
- Use “einerseits … andererseits” to weigh up.
- Justify each argument briefly.
- Formulate a clear, justified opinion at the end.
Frequently asked questions
What do I have to do in Task 4?
Taking a stance in a discussion. Respond to the given situation and use the suitable phrases.
How much preparation time do I have?
Only short preparation time. Quickly note keywords and a structure, then speak freely into the microphone.
Do I speak with an examiner?
No. The Oral Expression is computer-based – you speak alone into the microphone, and your answer is recorded.
What’s the best way to practice Task 4?
Practice this speech act with various situations, ideally out loud and recorded. A Prepliq mock grades your speaking automatically.
Other parts
Useful resources
Learn the most important TestDaF vocabulary interactively with flashcards.
Preview and download the official TestDaF practice test – with answers and study material.
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