Speaking a second language is probably the most difficult skill to test in that it involves a combination of skills that may have no correlation with each other, and which do not lend themselves to objective testing. In addition, what can be understood is a function of the listener's background and ability as well as those of the speaker. Another difficulty is separating the listening skill from the speaking skill. In spite of the difficulties in testing speaking, it can be very beneficial in that it encourages the teaching of speaking in class. Reading aloud, conversational exchanges, and tests using visual material as stimuli are common test items for testing speaking. Oral interviews, role play tests, and group or pair activities are also useful. One of the great difficulties in testing speaking is the assessment and its scoring. If possible, the speaking tasks should be recorded and the scoring done from the tape. Aspects of speaking that might be considered in the assessment scale are grammar, pronunciation, fluency, content, organization, and vocabulary. Even though methods of testing speaking are not perfect, they are worth the effort for their effects on teaching and classroom instruction. (SLD)