This paper deals with a research project, which aims to analyze the
application of a technique in order to reduce anxiety in foreign language
oral exams. After considering reasons for the existence of exam anxiety and
some options for anxiety reduction, the technique of positive reevaluation is
described and presented as a possible alternative. An empirical study
carried out with secondary-school students showed reduction of anxiety
when using this technique.The study attempts to verify the hypothesis that
anxiety levels drop when candidates, who perceive the oral exam negatively,
reevaluate their own performance at the start of the exam and succeed in
perceiving it positively. To facilitate this, examiners model their
discourse at the very beginning of the oral exam, providing
candidates with comprehensible input and the opportunity to reduce their
anxiety.