GCSE English Speaking & Listening Ideas

Are you a GCSE student needing inspiration for your spoken language presentation? Maybe you’re feeling unsure about the topic you should choose, or want to know how to make your talk engaging and original. No doubt you’re feeling pretty stressed about it all, too! 

Here, you’ll find the answers you’re looking for, as well as some much-needed reassurance. Our guide will offer you practical topic suggestions, expert teacher tips, and info on how you’ll be graded.

Key Takeaways

• Choose a topic you care about – your passion will improve your presentation

• Structure matters – a clear beginning, middle, and end will help you stay on track 

• Practice builds confidence – rehearse your talk out loud so it feels second nature

• Prepare for the Q & A after your presentation - think about what you might be asked

What Is the GCSE Speaking and Listening Assessment?

Your GCSE English speaking and listening assessment (opens in a new tab) is called the Spoken Language Endorsement. It's graded separately to your GCSE English Language exams, and appears on your certificate alongside your English Language GCSE grade. Your teacher will assess you. It's marked as Pass, Merit, or Distinction.

What does it involve? You'll talk about a topic of your choice (usually 3–10 minutes). Afterwards, you’ll answer questions or have a discussion about it. This isn’t meant to trick you - it tests whether you can think on your feet and respond thoughtfully. Often, it’s used to help you gain marks.

Even though the endorsement doesn't affect your final English Language grade, universities and colleges may look at it for an "early sense of your ability and work ethic". This is especially true for competitive courses, where there are more applicants than places. Why? Because speaking confidently is a brilliant life skill. It’ll help you in job interviews, university presentations, and everyday work situations.

How to Choose the Right Topic

To pick the best presentation topic, choose something you already know about or feel strongly about. You'll find it much easier to speak for several minutes on a topic you’ve already discussed at school, or with friends and family.

Ask yourself these questions:

• What topics make me want to join in during class discussions?

• Is there something in the news that really bothers or excites me?

• Do I have a unique experience or hobby I could share?

• What would I happily chat about with friends for ages?

Your topic should allow you to inform (teach your audience something new), persuade (convince them to think or act differently), or analyse (explore different viewpoints). Most students find persuasive topics easiest because you can use powerful techniques like rhetorical questions and emotional appeals.

Not sure how to persuade? Explore our guide on persuasive language techniques.

Expert tip: Avoid topics that are too broad or too narrow. Choosing something like “social media” is a mammoth task and could find you speaking too generally. On the other hand, “my fear of spiders” might not give you enough to discuss. Instead, find a focused angle: "why social media has become so popular" or "why we have certain phobias" are specific enough to develop properly.

Topic Ideas for Your Speech

Here are some ready-made ideas grouped by theme. Remember, you can twist any of these to suit you.

Note: WJEC (opens in a new tab) gives a set topic list (Wales, Leisure, The World of Work, The World of Science/Technology, Citizenship). Make sure the topic you choose fits well in one of these categories. 

Social Issues and Current Affairs

Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
Perfect for persuasive speaking. You could use statistics about young people's political engagement and employ the "rule of three" technique: "We can work at 16, we can pay tax at 16, we should vote at 16."

Why mental health education should be compulsory in schools
A powerful topic where personal anecdotes work brilliantly. Use emotive language to help your audience understand the importance, but balance it with facts about current mental health statistics among young people.

The reality of fast fashion
Great for informative presentations. You could open with a shocking statistic (a rhetorical hook) about clothing waste, then explain the environmental impact and alternatives like charity shopping or clothes swaps.

Social media's impact on body image
This allows you to analyse different viewpoints. Consider using counter-arguments: "Some say social media connects us, but at what cost to our self-esteem?"

Why we need better youth facilities in our community
Excellent for persuasive speeches with a local angle. Use inclusive language ("we," "us," "our community") to build connection with your audience.

Technology and Innovation

Should schools ban smartphones?
A controversial topic that gets people talking. Present both sides fairly, then use persuasive techniques to argue your viewpoint. Try rhetorical questions: "Can we really prepare young people for a digital world by removing the very tools they'll use?"

Artificial intelligence: helpful assistant or job-stealer?
Brilliant for analytical presentations. You could structure this with clear sections exploring benefits and concerns, finishing with your own balanced conclusion.

Online safety for young people
An informative topic where you're the expert. Share practical tips and perhaps personal experiences (without oversharing). Use the power of storytelling to make your points memorable.

The future of gaming: education or just entertainment?
Perfect if gaming's your passion. You could challenge stereotypes using evidence about problem-solving skills and strategic thinking developed through games.

Why everyone should learn to code
Great for persuasive speaking. Use analogies to make coding accessible: "It's like learning a new language that lets you communicate with computers."

Pop Culture and Entertainment

How music influences our wellbeing
You could explore different genres and their effects, using your own music preferences as examples. This works well as an informative speech with persuasive elements about music's importance.

Are influencers a positive force?
Analyse different types of influencers and their impact. Use specific examples (without being mean about individuals) and employ balanced arguments before reaching your conclusion.

Why representation matters in film and TV
Powerful topic for persuasive speaking. Use examples of characters or shows that made you feel seen, then explain why diversity on screen affects real life.

The problem with celebrity cancel culture
Controversial and discussion-worthy. You'll need to handle different viewpoints sensitively whilst arguing your own position clearly.

Books vs. films: which tells better stories?
Fun and accessible. You could use humour and personal anecdotes whilst building a persuasive case for your preferred medium.

School and Student Life

Exam pressure: are we testing students too much?
Incredibly relatable for your audience. Use emotional appeals carefully – share how stress feels, but back it up with facts about student wellbeing and alternative assessment methods.

Why school uniform policies should change
Classic persuasive topic. Address counter-arguments ("But uniform creates equality") before dismantling them with well-reasoned points.

Should students have a say in their curriculum?
Excellent for demonstrating mature thinking. Acknowledge the challenges whilst making your case for a student voice.

The importance of creative subjects
Perfect if you're passionate about art, music, or drama. Use emotive language about how these subjects develop crucial skills, not just exam grades.

Homework: helpful or harmful?
Everyone has opinions on this! Structure your argument carefully and use evidence (perhaps survey your classmates beforehand?) to strengthen your persuasive case. Make sure your speech is not just a personal rant, though! Research this so you sound credible.

Personal Interests and Hobbies

Why everyone should try [your hobby]
Whether it's skateboarding, baking, or bird-watching, your enthusiasm will be infectious. Use descriptive language to help your audience visualise and understand your passion.

What my part-time job taught me about the real world
Brilliant for narrative and reflective presentations. Share specific moments and what you learned, making it relatable to others considering work.

The life lessons from team sports
Go beyond the obvious "teamwork" point. Explore resilience, handling disappointment, or celebrating others' success. Use personal anecdotes to illustrate each point.

Why learning another language opens doors
If you speak multiple languages, this showcases your experience. Use statistics and research to convince others to start learning. Perhaps start with a memorable phrase in another language as your hook.

Volunteering: why giving time matters more than giving money
Inspiring topic if you've volunteered. Share your story, but connect it to bigger ideas about community and making a difference.

What Examiners Are Looking For

What the exam boards say:

AQA (opens in a new tab), Edexcel Pearson (opens in a new tab), WJEC, and OCR (opens in a new tab) all assess three main areas, though they might use slightly different terminology.

• Content and organisation

• Effective use of Standard English

• Engaging an audience

• Responding to questions

Content and Organisation

• Is your presentation well-structured with a clear introduction, main points, and conclusion?

• Have you developed ideas to achieve your purpose?

  • Use examples, evidence, or anecdotes

• Does your opening grab attention?

  • Try starting with a question, shocking fact, quotation, or bold statement

• Have you signposted where your talk is going?

  • Use markers: “On the other hand”, “Firstly” and “Finally”

Delivery and Standard English

• Are you speaking clearly and at a good pace?

• Do you use Standard English appropriately?

  • This doesn't mean being posh – it means using correct grammar and avoiding irrelevant slang

• Does your vocabulary suit your topic and audience?

• Have you varied your tone to maintain interest?

  • Long sentences followed by shorter ones, questions and pauses for effect

Responding to Questions

• Can you answer questions confidently without just repeating your presentation?

• Do you listen carefully and respond directly to what's asked?

• Can you expand on your points or consider alternative viewpoints?

• Do you stay calm if asked something challenging?

Expert tips: Weave in persuasive techniques throughout. Use:

• Rhetorical questions ("Isn't it time we did something about this?")

• Lists of three ("It's unfair, it's unnecessary, and it's got to change")

• Direct address ("We’ve all been there” or “You might think this doesn't affect you, but...")

For a detailed breakdown, explore our clear advice on AQA criteria. 

Tips for a Confident Delivery

Top-grade presentations feel natural rather than robotic. You should sound like you're sharing something important with friends, not reading an essay aloud. 

Practice Out Loud Beforehand
Reading your notes silently won't prepare you for actually speaking. Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself on your phone, or present to family members. Try to avoid speaking too quietly or too quickly. 

Vary Your Voice
Avoid speaking in a monotone. Use pauses, questions, lists, and short, emphatic sentences. Listen to good speakers on TikTok or YouTube to hear how they keep you hooked.

Time Yourself
Know how long your presentation should be and practice hitting that target. Going way over or finishing too quickly can both affect your grade.

Use Cue Cards, Not Scripts
Write key points and quotes on small cards rather than writing everything word-for-word. Your cue cards or a presentation slide should contain key words, key facts, or statistics. 

Prepare for Questions
Think about what people might ask and plan some responses. It's fine to say "That's an interesting question, let me think..." to buy yourself a moment.

Manage Your Nerves
Feeling nervous is normal: public speaking is always scary! Remember, appearing confident (even if you aren’t) helps you stay calm. Take deep breaths before starting. Don’t panic if you forget what you were going to say next, just pause and continue with a smile.

A top tip? Pass around an image, or use a presentation for your audience to look at. This means they won’t all be staring at you. 

Make Eye Contact
Look at different people around the room. If that feels scary, look at people's foreheads – they'll think you're making eye contact! This creates connection and shows confidence.

Use Your Body Language
Stand up straight and don't hide behind a desk or lean on it. Use your hands to demonstrate points rather than standing stiff and still.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should my speaking and listening presentation be?

Most exam boards want a minimum of 3 to 4 minutes, with 10 minutes being the maximum. Be prepared for about 5 minutes of questions afterwards. 

Do I have to persuade the audience or can I just inform them?

You can do either. Informative presentations work brilliantly if you're teaching your audience something new. However, persuasive presentations often score well because they include more engagement techniques like rhetorical questions and emotive language. The best speeches have an element of persuasion, information, as well as entertainment through personal anecdotes. 

Can I use visual aids like PowerPoint?

Yes, most exam boards allow visual aids, but check with your teacher. PowerPoint slides, images, or props can enhance your presentation, but they're not compulsory.

If you do use slides, keep them simple – just a few words or a relevant image (maybe a graph) per slide. Make sure you avoid reading directly from slides (or notes). 

Final Thoughts

As a teacher, listening to students discuss things they care about is a real highlight of the GCSE course! It isn’t often you get a chance to talk in lessons, so see it as a good opportunity to voice your opinions and passions. Of course, we know it’s nerve-wracking, too. Try to remember that your teacher understands you’re anxious, and that your class-mates are all in the same boat. 

Even professional speakers get nervous. But, a topic you know about, with enough material to discuss, plus good preparation will help you feel more confident. 

Keep in mind that the skills you develop (speaking confidently, organising your thoughts, and responding to questions) prepare you for a future job or university interview. Speaking well really is a key life skill!

Excel in GCSE English With Save My Exams

At Save My Exams, you’ll find everything you need to excel in GCSE English, including expertly written GCSE English Language Revision Notes. Our resources are designed to help you master challenging concepts, boost your confidence, and achieve your full potential.

At Save My Exams, we've helped GCSE students, just like you, navigate their GCSE exams. Our expert team knows exactly what examiners are looking for – and we're here to share that knowledge with you.

References: 

GCSE English language: assessment of spoken language skills - (opens in a new tab)GOV.UK (opens in a new tab)

AQA Spoken Language Endorsement (opens in a new tab)

Edexcel Pearson Spoken Language Endorsement (opens in a new tab)

WJEC GCSE English Language specification (opens in a new tab)

OCR GCSE English Language specification (opens in a new tab)