ALL Cambridge tests test Speaking. In the Speaking test, two types of test format are used: individual and paired.

　　The individual format is more appropriate in tests for children, where their cognitive and social development might not be sophisticated enough to be able to manage an interaction with a fellow candidate, and also for examinations like IELTS to avoid candidates being paired with someone whose language ability is completely different.

　　All the other Cambridge Speaking tests use the paired format. There are two aspects to the paired format which are relevant in encouraging candidates to produce spontaneous samples of language. The first is the interaction patterns that can be used between the interlocutor and the candidates. The second aspect is to do with the use of language functions. Spoken language can be described in terms of informational and interactional functions, and those of the interaction management generated by the participants involved.

　　Individual format Speaking tests allow candidates to use all of the informational functions, and some of the interactional functions. On the other hand, the paired format allows candidates to make use of the language required in all three functional groups.