Speaking french is not only about grammar and a good structure even if it is indeed important. The facial expression and the "euh" (umh), or "alors" (so) when you are thinking about your answer gives you extra points because you are trying to be authentic. Moreover one of the best way to improve your oral expression is to watch movies in fench with the french subtitles: it will help you to use french expression in the good context and to pick up some basic sentences which you will be able to remember when you write an essay. The more you watch and read the more references you can add in your essay which will show your ability to understand a specific context.