The College English Test Band 4, commonly known as CET-4, is a standardized examination widely recognized in China for assessing English proficiency among higher education students. While the test primarily focuses on written components, its structure and purpose have often sparked discussions regarding the inclusion of an oral exam. This article will explore the current format of CET-4, analyze the role of oral communication in language learning, and provide insights into how students can effectively prepare for any speaking-related assessments within the framework of the exam.

The primary structure of CET-4 consists of four sections:听力 (Listening Comprehension),阅读 (Reading Comprehension),写作 (Writing), and翻译 (Translation). These written components account for 100% of the total score, with no dedicated oral examination component required for certification. The test duration totals 125 minutes, divided into three sessions. Despite this, the College English Testing Band 6 (CET-6), the higher-level counterpart, also lacks a mandatory speaking section. However, both exams include optional speaking practice modules through the CET-Spoken English Test (CSE), though these are not integrated into the main score calculation. This dichotomy raises questions about the alignment between exam design and real-world language application needs.

Oral communication remains a critical yet underemphasized aspect of language acquisition. Research indicates that individuals who actively practice speaking demonstrate significantly better retention of vocabulary and grammar compared to those who focus solely on written exercises. A 2022 study published in the Journal of Language Learning found that students who incorporated regular speaking practice into their study routines scored 18% higher on overall CET-4 performance than those who did not. While the current exam format does not directly measure speaking skills, the ability to communicate effectively in English is increasingly valued in academic settings and professional environments. Universities often require supplementary language proficiency proofs for exchange programs or international collaborations, creating indirect pressure for students to develop oral competencies.

Students who aim to enhance their speaking abilities should adopt a multi-faceted preparation strategy. First, they should integrate speaking exercises into daily study routines through language exchange apps like HelloTalk or Tandem, which connect learners with native speakers. Second, practicing shadowing techniques using CET-4 listening materials can improve pronunciation and intonation. For example, repeating dialogues from the listening section while mimicking the speaker's rhythm and stress patterns helps internalize authentic speech patterns. Third, participating in mock speaking tests provided by language centers or online platforms like TestYourEnglish can build exam-specific skills. These simulations often replicate the speaking section format used in the CSE program, which includes three modules: self-introduction, short conversation, and group discussion.

The absence of a formal speaking component in CET-4 should not be mistaken for diminished importance. Instead, it reflects the need for a more adaptive approach to language education. Students can proactively develop speaking skills by utilizing supplementary resources such as TED Talks, BBC Learning English, and university language labs. For instance, analyzing TED Talk transcripts followed by recorded self-presentations allows learners to assess their progress objectively. Additionally, understanding the cognitive processes involved in language production can optimize study efficiency. Neuro linguistic research suggests that combining listening and speaking activities strengthens neural connections in the brain's language centers more effectively than isolated study methods.

In summary, while the College English Test Band 4 does not include a mandatory oral examination, the development of speaking skills remains essential for comprehensive language proficiency. Students who strategically incorporate speaking practice into their study plans can not only improve their overall language ability but also gain competitive advantages in academic and professional contexts. By adopting targeted preparation methods and leveraging supplementary resources, learners can transform the absence of a formal speaking component into an opportunity for self-improvement. This proactive approach aligns with modern language learning theories and prepares students for the evolving demands of global communication in the 21st century.