For many of us, working or studying abroad is a dream come true. However, the feat requires you to achieve multiple milestones down the path. The most crucial one is scoring high marks on the English proficiency test if your aim is to pursue a career in an English-speaking country like Australia, the USA, Maldives, Malta, and New Zealand. For those who wish to resume their career in the healthcare industry, scoring well on the OET or Occupational English Test becomes imperative.
This test, conducted by the Cambridge Boxhill Language Assessment Unit Test (CBLA), assesses English language proficiency to ensure the candidates are fit to work or study in environments where English is the primary language of communication. However, taking the OET exam requires strategy, practice, and consistency. With this comprehensive blog, we intend to deliver a deeper understanding of the OET writing test and how to prepare for it. So, read until the end.
Sub-tests of the OET Exam
The OET test has different versions depending on your chosen profession. For example, if you are an occupational therapist, your test will be different from that of the candidate who chooses dentistry or optometry. There are 12 different professions including Nursing, Radiography, Veterinary Science, Speech Pathology, Physiotherapy, Dietetics and more. However, the exam pattern/sections remain the same. There are 4 sub-tests under the OET exam. The scores of each will determine if you’re capable of communicating effectively in English within a healthcare setting specific to your chosen profession. These sub-tests are:
- Listening
- Reading
- Writing
- Speaking
Understanding the OET Writing Test
As stated earlier, the OET exam is profession-driven. However, the time, which is 45 minutes, and the format remain the same for every test-taker.
The first 5 minutes demand the candidate to carefully read a case note, and then they must write a letter based on it. It could be a referral letter, letter of transfer, discharge letter, letter to advise or inform the patient, or a letter responding to a complaint. The candidate must carefully go through the case note so they can write an appropriate letter of around 180-200 words. You’ll be assessed on your ability to accurately convey relevant information from the case notes and follow a clear structure.
Tips to Effectively Practice OET Writing
Achieving strong performance on the OET writing test demands diligent preparation and practice. Here are a few ways to hone your writing skills and ace the exam:
Understand the Assessment Process
When you want to write a scoring letter, it’s crucial to understand how the marking system works. Your answer is double-marked by qualified assessors based on six criteria. You must score highly in each one of the below criteria to obtain at least 350 (previously called grade “B”).
- Purpose: Ensure that your letter clearly explains its intent (e.g., referral, discharge) at the beginning.
- Content: Use relevant information from the case note and explain these in the letter through full sentences and apt vocabulary.
- Conciseness & Clarity: Avoid adding irrelevant information and write the needed details in a clear and concise manner.
- Genre & Style: The letter must be in a formal style, so ensure you maintain the suitable use of terminology and tone throughout. Add facts rather than your judgments.
- Organisation & Layout: Ensure that your letter has a clear structure, which can be chronological or thematical, depending on the task.
- Language: Use accurate grammar, vocabulary, punctuation, and spelling.
Familiarising yourself with these criteria will help you write letters that target each aspect of the assessment.
Practice with Sample Papers
Head over to the official OET website (https://oet.com/ready/writing) and explore their treasure trove of sample papers. Download and practice writing letters based on these samples. Focus on improving your accuracy and efficiency with each attempt.
Time Your Sessions
Remember, the OET writing test allows only 45 minutes. So, whenever you practice with sample papers, set a timer for 45 minutes to simulate the actual test environment. This will condition you to write concisely and effectively within the time limit.
Master Skimming the Case Notes
The initial 5 minutes of the test are crucial for reading and understanding the case notes. Develop your skimming skills to identify the most relevant information quickly. Regular practice will hone this ability and ensure you can efficiently extract key details for your letter.
Enhance Vocabulary and Grammar
Sophisticated vocabulary that is also easily understandable is the key to grabbing scores in the OET exam. You must read as much as possible to enhance your knowledge of words. Make reading a daily habit and explore healthcare publications or online resources to expand your wordbook. Also, using clear and accurate medical terms relevant to your profession is encouraged. However, refrain from complex jargon. Additionally, brush up on your grammar skills to write a clear and error-free letter.
Ask for Feedback
Don’t be shy to seek feedback! Share your practice letters with teachers, friends, or fellow OET aspirants. Constructive criticism can highlight areas for improvement and boost your overall writing skills.
To Sum Up
The OET writing test might seem daunting initially, but with consistent practice and the right strategies, you can ace it! Remember, EnglishWise is here to support you on your OET journey. We offer comprehensive coaching programs and access to a vast library of practice tests designed to help you succeed.
So, what are you waiting for? Sign up with EnglishWise today and take the first step towards your dream healthcare career!
