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A Step-by-Step Plan to Master Every Section of the Test

A Step-by-Step Plan to Master Every Section of the Test

A Practical Guide to Staying Motivated and Succeeding on the SLE

Feeling overwhelmed by the SLE? You’re not alone, and you’re in the right place. 

Whether you’re preparing for the written expression, reading comprehension, or the oral language assessment, it’s easy to feel lost in the process. The Second Language Evaluation (SLE) is a crucial step for many government employees in Canada working toward bilingual positions or advancing in their careers. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to figure it out on your own. 

At LRDG, we’ve helped thousands of learners just like you develop a personalized strategy, build their confidence, and successfully pass each section of the SLE, whether in French or English. This blog offers a step-by-step study guide that you can follow, from the very beginning of your journey all the way to test day. 

Let’s break down each section of the SLE and walk you through a proven plan to stay consistent, stay motivated, and succeed. 

Overview of the SLE Sections

The Second Language Evaluation (SLE) includes three parts: 

Written Expression

  • Supervised: 65 multiple-choice questions (55 count + 10 pilot) in 90 minutes 
  • Unsupervised: 30 fill‑in‑the‑blank questions in 45 minutes 

Reading Comprehension

  • Supervised: 60 questions (50 count + 10 pilot) in 90 minutes 
  • Unsupervised: 25 multiple-choice questions in 45 minutes 

Oral Language Assessment (OLA)

  • A 20–40-minute structured interview conducted remotely via Microsoft Teams with a certified assessor. 

Step-by-Step Study Plan (Powered by LRDG)

Designed specifically for Canadian government employees preparing in French or English, this plan ensures you keep momentum and stay motivated. 

Book a Preliminary Evaluation with LRDG today!

Step 1: Book a Preliminary Evaluation 

Kick things off with an LRDG Preliminary Evaluation to identify your current level. This helps set clear goals for a personalized study schedule. 

Step 2: Create a Weekly Study Schedule That Works for You

At LRDG, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Choose a training program that fits your lifestyle and goals: 

  • Part-time, full-time, or accelerated tutoring options available
  • A personalized study plan built around your level and SLE objectives

Your weekly routine combines online tutoring with self-study on the LRDG platform, accessible anytime, anywhere. You’ll study modules ranging from 0 to 15, which correspond to Levels A, B, and C, and gain access to our dedicated SLE Oral and Written preparation sections designed to help you focus on the specific skills required to succeed on the exam.

Along the way, you can test your progress with mock tests to simulate real exam conditions and identify areas for improvement.

Step 3: Practice Smart with Question Types

Make the most of your study time by focusing on the structure of each SLE component and practicing in the same format you’ll see on test day: 

  • Reading Comprehension:
    Practice with both supervised-style tests (60 questions) and unsupervised versions (25 questions) to get familiar with different question types and text formats. Focus on strategies like skimming, scanning, and identifying main ideas and inferences.
  • Written Expression:
    Prepare for both formats: the supervised 65-question version, which includes grammar and structure-based multiple-choice questions, and the unsupervised 30-question version, which focuses on vocabulary and sentence construction. Focus on identifying errors and selecting the most accurate and idiomatic expressions.
  • Oral Language Assessment (OLA):
    Simulate real exam conditions through mock oral tests, practice role-plays with LRDG tutors, and start with our Preliminary Evaluation, conducted by an official evaluator. This multi-step approach helps build fluency, improve structure, and boost your confidence before the real assessment.

Step 4: Meet LRDG Tutors & Pedagogical Advisors 

Our tutors know each test format inside-out. They’ll help with fluency, grammar feedback, reading strategies, and test-taking confidence. You’ll also get support from pedagogical advisors to guide your learning journey. 
 ? Meet our Tutors and Evaluators 

Meet our Tutors and Evaluators

Step 5: Test Yourself Along the Way 

Practicing under realistic conditions is key to building confidence for the real exam. 

  • At LRDG, you can book oral mock tests with an official evaluator to simulate the format and pressure of the actual Oral Language Assessment (OLA).
  • For the reading and writing components, use the official practice tests available on the Public Service Commission of Canada’s website to work through real question types under timed conditions.
  • Review your results with your tutor, who will help you identify patterns, fix recurring errors, and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Building exam stamina and improving your timing starts with consistent practice—and the right guidance. 

Step 6: Track & Adjust

Review results with LRDG advisors: 

  • Identify and address common challenges, such as grammar mistakes, vocabulary gaps, or misunderstandings of question wording. 
  • Use tutor feedback to fine-tune your study plan. 
  • Remain motivated, even small improvements count! 

LRDG Expert Tips 

Our tutors and pedagogical advisors recommend: 

  • Using mixed study techniques daily to keep all skills active (reading, writing, speaking)
  • Completing your self-study and homework assignments between tutoring sessions to reinforce what you’ve learned
  • Spending at least 20 minutes per day on focused language learning to build consistency
  • Reviewing explanations for every wrong answer to truly understand your mistakes and avoid repeating them
  • Making the most of your tutoring sessions by coming prepared with questions and staying engaged for optimal results

Don’t just study with LRDG, learn from LRDG. Build a personal rapport with your tutors and leverage those interactions throughout your prep.
? Get to Know Our Team

Your Next Steps to SLE Success

You’re not alone on this journey. With structured practice, expert guidance, and a growth mindset, you can master every section of the SLE. Here’s how to get started:

  • Do a mock test today to see where you’re at

Take that first step—you’re closer than you think!