SERU Mock

TfL English test role play: situations to practise

Part 2 of the TfL English test is a role play of two short social situations. In one the examiner starts. In the other you start the conversation.

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What Part 2 is

LanguageCert describes Part 2 as "initiate and respond appropriately to social situations". Each situation is usually about four exchanges, with two short turns each. The examiner may take a role. You never have to. The situations in the handbook are everyday ones, such as talking with a friend.

Why we add driver situations

We do not know which situations will come up, and we are not copying them. To make practice useful, we also give situations from a driver’s day. These are our own ideas. They help you practise polite, clear English for work, but they are not a list of what will be asked.

Passenger situations to practise

Greet a passenger and check their name and destination.
Tell a passenger the road ahead is closed and you need another route.
Say you are a few minutes late and apologise.
Ask a passenger to put on their seat belt, politely.
Offer help to a passenger with heavy bags.

Operator and everyday situations

Phone the operator to say a passenger has not come out.
Tell the operator you cannot do the next booking, and give a reason.
Ask a friend to move a meeting to another day.
Tell a neighbour about a problem with a delivery.

Tips for role plays

Start with a greeting and say why you are talking.
Use polite words: please, sorry, could you, thank you.
React to what the other person says. Do not read your own script.
Keep each turn short: one or two sentences.

Practise in the free mock. More help: tips and the format.

Questions

What is the role play in the TfL English test?

Part 2: two short social situations, one where the examiner starts and one where you start.

Will there be passenger situations in the test?

The sources we checked describe everyday social situations, not driver situations. Our passenger examples are for extra practice.

How long is each role play?

Usually about four exchanges, with two short turns each, according to the qualification handbook.

Do I have to act?

No. The examiner may play a role, but you never have to. Just reply naturally.