Search Results for: TOEFL tips

Hi TOEFL prep students,

I am Michael, the founder, owner, and materials writer of the Online TOEFL Course “The 7-Step System to Pass the TOEFL iBT.

Jose, an international student needing to improve his TOEFL score,  sent me an e-mail earlier this month and shared his story with me. He took the TOEFL exam a few months ago and scored 91. Of course, this is a strong score, but Jose needed to improve his speaking and writing proficiency.

First of all, even though Jose speaks Spanish, German, and English, he has some fluency issues in the sense that he has difficulties formulating ideas when completing TOEFL independent speaking tasks. These difficult speaking problems are also manifested in his inability to use basic vocabulary since he just completed his graduate study, thereby making him more comfortable using more advanced, academic, and discipline-specific vocabulary.

Second of all,  Jose also has problems with writing, particularly with the integrated writing task in which he is asked to explain the main points of a reading and listening passage and show how the two passages are related.  For instance, Jose said he was having problems summarizing the sources so that it was clear that the information came from the reading and the listening passage and not from him. As a result, because of this and some other language-use problems, Jose was given a fair rating on the TOEFL integrated writing task.

Finally, Jose wanted some advice from me to help him improve his speaking and writing abilities of academic English.  The following video will explain my recommendations to Jose:

Have a Happy New Year!

Michael

TOEFLers,

John has been studying hard in an effort to improve his TOEFL score. As he began completing integrated speaking and writing tasks, he noticed that he was having some trouble summarizing, synthesizing, and paraphrasing the main and most supporting points from the reading and the listening passages. Therefore, he sent me an e-mail to get some tips, materials, and good web sites that could help him improve his proficiency in these areas.

In the following video, here is the advice I gave him so that he could continue to improve his academic English language proficiency:

Thanks,

Michael

 

 

 

TOEFLers,

Studying for the TOEFL can be arduous, and the improvements might not come as fast as you would like. Consider the case of Tana, who took the TOEFL exam about a year ago and scored 69.  Then, the following year, she took the TOEFL exam and scored 87, which is a dramatic improvement from the previous year. However, she immigrated to the United States and wants to get a Master’s Degree in Architecture. To her frustration, her graduate program requires a score of 100 or higher, so she took the TOEFL exam three more times, each time scoring right around 85. Therefore, she sent me an e-mail asking advice on how to get unstuck out of her TOEFL rut so she can score more than 100.

Getting this score will not be easy, and she will need a lot of TOEFL iBT speaking and writing practice to boost her score. In addition, she will need to improve her vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, listening, and reading proficiencies.  Here are my comments to her:

From what I can tell, Tana is motivated, and, if she follows the steps I outlined in the video, she will be able to join the TOEFL 100 club.  And that is a cool club to be a part of!

Respectfully,

Michael

 

 

Those who visit Good Luck TOEFL stay on average 5 minutes when visiting that web site. When you figure the average visit length for most web sites is less than 30 seconds, it can be assumed that those who frequent Good Luck TOEFL are getting useful and lasting information about the TOEFL exam.

First of all, a user will find the site easy to navigate, and the content is delivered in short, easy-to-understand sentences and paragraphs. For example, in the left column, you will see the clickable links: TOEFL Basics, TOEFL Overview, TOEFL Exam Details, Registration, Administrating, and Scoring. You simply need to click on each link to get the information you seek.

Second of all, the information is complete and accurately explained. I am been teaching TOEFL preparation courses at California State University, San Bernardino for almost 20 years, and the primary secondary, and support skills that Good Luck TOEFL explains will help you to improve your score. Moreover, what is particularly useful about Good Luck TOEFL is how the author connects the language skills required during the TOEFL exam to those needed when pursuing academic studies at English-speaking universities.

Finally, you should definitely visit this site if you genuinely want to prepare yourself for the TOEFL exam and for your furture academic studies. Good Luck TOEFL will equip you with the tools you need to reach your academic English goals: http://www.goodlucktoefl.com/

 

These TOEFL test-taking strategies will help you to get the highest score possible. The day comes when you are ready to take the TOEFL iBT, right? So, what should you do as you complete the reading, listening, speaking, and writing sections? Why type of TOEFL test-taking strategies do you need to know in order to score higher?

With TOEFL test-taking strategies, generally speaking, you should not waste time reading the directions for any section of the TOEFL exam on test day.  Get familiar with the structure of the test BEFORE test-day. Most students will take a full-length four hour iBT practice test before test day. Taking a practice test will

• Help them to become familiar with the structure of the TOEFL exam.
• Familiarize them with the directions for all sections of the exam so they do not need to do that on test day.
• Give students practice concentrating in English for almost five hours.
• Provide a benchmark of their progress. Students often use the practice test score information to determine whether or not they are ready to take the official TOEFL exam.
• Taking a practice will help you learn the TOEFL test-taking strategies that you need to know so that you can improve your score.

Email me at mbuckhoff@aol.com if you want to take one of these accurate, realistic full-length practice tests.  Indeed, taking a full-length four practice test are effective TOEFL Test-Taking Strategies.

 

TOEFL Test-Taking Strategies: Reading

Reading can be challenging for many simply because they are trying to read in a new language. Once you begin the reading section, consider the following TOEFL test-taking strategies.

Skim through the paragraphs in the first reading passage.  After each paragraph, jot down 2-3 words which explain what is happening. The idea here is to create a mind so you do not have to keep reading the passage over and over.

Then, go to the questions.  Read each question to find out what you need to do in order to answer correctly. Understanding how to answer each of these questions will help you move through the reading section much faster and more accurately on test day. The TOEFL test-taking strategies below will help you to navigate quickly through the reading passages.

Main idea: These TOEFL test-taking strategies will help you with main idea questions. “What is the main idea…?” asks you to identify the main point of ALL the passage.

As a result, skim thorough each paragraph. Pay attention to the first and last line.  Skim through the middle part of each paragraph quickly.

Then choose the answer which bests explains the purpose of the ENTIRE passage.

Be careful of answers which are too general or too specific. These are the TOEFL test-taking strategies for main idea questions.

Detail: There are also TOEFL test-taking strategies for the detail questions. “According to paragraph X, what is…..?” asks you to find some details from the passage.

In many cases, you will go to a specific paragraph to find some related information from the question.

Once you find the relevant information, choose an answer which best restates the information that you have just read.

Vocabulary: These TOEFL test-taking strategies will help you perform better with vocabulary questions. “The word ‘……..’ in the passage in closest in meaning to….?” requires you to understand vocabulary words you have never seen before.

Go into the passage to find the vocabulary word that you are trying to understand. Read the sentence before the word, the sentence using the word, and one last sentence after the word is used.

Then use the context to guess what the most likely meaning of the word is.

Be careful if you are identifying a vocabulary word you have already seen. In this case, the word may have an unusual meaning.  Look for an answer that expresses the most unusual meaning to that word.

Do NOT spend more than a minute answering this question. If you have no idea what the word means, make a guess and move on to the next question.

Pronoun referent question: These types of referent questions have TOEFL test-taking strategies.  “What does ‘it’ refer to in the passage?” asks you about pronoun referents such as “that,” “which,” “it,” “they,” and so on.

Once you identify the pronoun, go back to a previous part of that sentence or even the previous sentence to see what noun the pronoun is referring to.

In some cases, you might need to read ahead in the sentence or in the next sentence to identify which specific noun the pronoun refers to.

Implied detail: The TOEFL test-taking strategies here will help you with the inference type of reading question. “What does the author imply…..?” or  “What can be inferred about…..” represents an implied detail question.

Identify some key words in the passage to help you with TOEFL test-taking strategies. Then go to the passage to find those key words or related words.

Then you need to draw a conclusion about what is being said.

Choose the answer choice that is the most likely conclusion that can be drawn from what you read. Remember that the correct answer will NOT be directly stated in the passage.

Rhetorical:”Why does the author mention…?” is a rhetorical question.  In this case, you should try to understand how certain parts of sentences are related to other sentences. Doing this will improve your TOEFL test-taking strategies with rhetorical questions. Even you might have to look at how one word or idea relates to other words or ideas in other paragraphs.

Go to the passage to find some key words or related words from the passage.

Then try to see how these ideas relate to other ideas in that or another paragraph. Where you see this question will effect how you need to answer it:

• • • 1st line of second paragraph: Consider how the information is related to the thesis of the first paragraph. For instance, does it provide a supporting point for the thesis?
    • 1st line of any remaining paragraphs: Consider how the information fits into the topic of the previous paragraph and into the passage as a whole. For example, does it add or contradict the topic of the previous paragraph?
    • Last line of any remaining paragraphs, consider how the information is related to the topic of that paragraph. Or, perhaps, the author might be transitioning to a new idea in the next paragraph.

Insert a sentence: Look at the four squares [♦] that indicate where you should add the following sentence. Then, apply these TOEFL test-taking strategies.

Study the sentence to be inserted for any key words in the beginning or end.

Look for ideas in the sentences after each insertion box to see if you see any ideas that connect back to the sentence to be inserted. For more practice with this type of reading question, go here.

Summary: This question type contains six answer choices. You will select three of the choices and drag and drop them next to the bullets.  The summary question type is worth more than one point.  To answer this question, use these TOEFL test-taking strategies to improve your TOEFL test-taking strategies with this type of question:

Carefully read the topic statement in the summary chart.

Read the passage, especially focusing on the most important points that relate to the topic in the summary chart.

Read each answer choice. Evaluate whether or not it is a major or minor factor related to the topic statement.

Eliminate any false or not mentioned statements.

Select the answer choices that are true or are the most important points as your correct answers.

Remember that you can get partial points. Also, remember that you can put your answers in any particular order.

Category chart:  Several TOEFL test-taking strategies for the category chart question will help you perform better. This type of question comprises 5-7 answer choices and two categories. You will need to drag and drop your answer choices into these categories.  In some cases, you will not need to use all the answer choices in answering the question.  Like summary questions, this question is worth more than more point.  To answer this question correctly, you need to understand the main point and most important points of the passage.  The answers to this type of question, consequently, are found throughout the passage.  Here are TOEFL test-taking strategies on how to answer the category chart question:

Pay close attention to the information provided in the schematic table.

Read the passage. Keep in mind the main points as they relate to the topics in the schematic table.

Read each answer choice. Determine whether it is true, false, or not mentioned.

Eliminate any false or not discussed answers.

Match the true answers according to their respective category in the chart.

Remember that you can get partial credit and that answers may appear in any order.

Useful TOEFL test-taking strategies links for reading

Here are some TOEFL Test-Taking Strategies links that will help you improve your TOEFL reading score. I will provide a brief description of each link.

• TOEFL speed reading test: Complete a series of 7 speed reading practice tests plus comprehension test questions to find out whether or not you are ready to take the TOEFL iBT.
• TOEFL Reading Question Type–Insert a Sentence: Learn how to answer this reading question on the TOEFL exam.
• TOEFL iBT Reading Practice: Watch a short video which explains how STEALTH, ‘The 7-Step System to Pass the TOEFL iBT” will help you improve your TOEFL reading score.
• Getting the Main Idea of TOEFL Passages + Integrated Speaking and Writing Templates: Understand strategies for getting the main idea of every reading passage on the reading, speaking, and writing sections of the exam.
• TOEFL reading paraphrase question: Learn the TOEFL test-taking strategies for identifying and answering reading questions asking you to paraphrase.
• TOEFL reading strategies: Know exactly what you should do during the reading section of the TOEFL exam.
• Learn how Jorge improved his reading score from 19 to 25

TOEFL Test-Taking Strategies: Listening

Online TOEFL Test-Taking Strategies will introduce to you the six types of listening questions types. You will also learn the TOEFL test-taking strategies for answering each question type. Finally, you will complete a TOEFL listening practice test so that you can practice what you just learned.

These links will take you to additional TOEFL test-taking strategies at my web site to give you more practice with your listening comprehension skills:

Useful TOEFL test-taking strategies links for listening

• TOEFL listening practice tips: These TOEFL test-taking strategies will help you learn the listening tips and tricks for the listening section, speaking section, and the writing section.
• TOEFL iBT listening practice: This web page explains what lessons you will get if you subscribe to the Online TOEFL Course “The 7-Step System to Pass the TOEFL iBT.”
• ETS’s listening and reading practice tests: This web page will explain whether or not ETS’s listening and reading practice tests are the same level of difficulty as the actual TOEFL exam.
• Student has some questions about the reading and listening sections of the exam.
• Listening and speaking tips: This web page will teach about the importance of idiomatic expressions in listening and speaking.
• Three tips for better listening: This web page discusses three tips to improve your listening comprehension.
• Student has a question about how to make his listening notes more accurate and complete.

TOEFL Test-Taking Strategies: 100 Speaking Topics

Lasting only 20 minutes, the speaking section challenges many students.  The speaking section is especially difficult if you are trying to score 26+. During this section, you will answer different kinds of speaking tasks. Once you hear the question, you will have about 15-30 seconds to prepare your response.  As you can see below, there are many possible types of questions that you may be asked. In addition, the TOEFL changes the question format almost yearly. As a result, there is no way for sure to predict what type of question you will be asked.

TOEFL Test-Taking Strategies for Independent Speaking Task

TOEFL test-taking strategies, of course, will help you to perform optimally on the speaking section.  Here are some general TOEFL test-taking strategies:

Do NOT use templates: You’ve seen templates for speaking and writing all over the Internet, right?

• Templates reveal your limitations with your grammar, vocabulary, and topic development.
• If you already knew how to structure your ideas, you would not need to rely on templates.
• If you already had a good knowledge of vocabulary, you would not have to memorize formulaic expressions, around which you would frame your responses.
• Since the templates are posted at Magoosh, Bestmytest, Prepscholar, and a 1000 other web sites, TOEFL iBT human raters can easily recognize when they are being used. You will receive a lower score consequently.

Students will use a template even if it does not fit the speaking task: When students send me speaking tasks for me to grade, they sometimes will use a template that they learned from another web site to answer a TOEFL practice question.  Then they end up not addressing the speaking task and score lower as a result.

Practice makes perfect: Instead of using templates, as you practice these speaking tasks, you will learn to develop your own unique organization and structure that sounds natural.  As you practice these tests, record yourself answering the tasks. Here are some general guidelines to help you:

• With any TOEFL speaking task, you need to decode the task. Ask yourself, “How many parts are there to this speaking task?”
• With each part of the speaking task, restate the prompt using slightly different words. For example, if you are asked, “What was your favorite course in high school?”, you could begin by saying, “The class I enjoyed in high school was….”
• The examples that you provide in the independent speaking tasks should be precise. Avoid using general, impersonal examples!
• Make sure that you use transition words to connect your ideas together.
• You will need to provide reasons to support your points. As a result, only use two reasons to support your argument. However, if you find during your practice that you cannot provide two reasons plus specific examples for both in the 45 second time limit, then you should only provide one reason. Then, you spend 30 seconds or so using specific examples to support that one point.

TOEFL Independent Speaking Task 1–100 topics: Personal experience, Stating opinions, Three choices, and Giving Advice

Personal experience topics 1-10

1. What was your favorite course in high school? Why did you enjoy it so much?

• Model response
• View Listening Script

2. Talk about an embarrassing situation that you had.

3. Explain a difficult decision that you had to make. Who helped you to make this decision?

4. Sometimes people experience an event that may change them in important ways. Describe an event which happened to you. How did it change you?

5. What is one thing that you have learned now that you wish you had learned when you were younger?

6. What is a difficult obstacle that you have had to overcome recently? Why was it so difficult to solve this problem?

7. What is your favorite holiday of the year? Why do you enjoy this holiday so much?

8. Many people look forward to summer. What is your favorite thing that you like to do during the summer? Explain why you like to do it so much.

9. What is the most important thing that you learned from your parents?  Explain how learning this has affected your life right now.

10. What is your favorite hobby that you like to participate in when you have free time? Explain why you like to do it so much.

Stating opinions topics 11-20

11. Is the smartphone a useful tool for education?  Give examples to support your opinion.

12. Should society ban gasoline powered cars? Use some examples to support your argument.

13. Is group study better than individual study? Why or why not? Give examples to support your explanation.

14. Is it OK to tell a lie as long as it does not hurt anyone? Use examples and details to support your argument.

15. Is exercising more important than having a healthy diet? Why or why not? Give some reasons and examples to support your position.

16. Should most general education classes be omitted at universities?  Use some examples and reasons to support your opinion.

17. Should red meat be part of most people’s diet? Give reasons and examples to support your opinion.

18. Because of harmful emissions, should fossil-fuel powered automobiles be banned? Why or why not? Give reasons and examples to support your assertions.

19. Is it Ok to pay someone to write your college papers? Why or why not?  Give examples and reasons to support your ideas.

20.  Is solar power an effective alternative to fossil-fuel electricity? Present some examples to support your opinion.

Three choices topics 21-30

21. Which of the following qualities is most important in a roommate? Honesty, respect, or cleanliness.

22. In your opinion who has the most influence on your life right now? Spouse, sibling, or parent.

23. Which human right is most valuable to you? Freedom of religion, the right to have free healthcare, or freedom of speech. Use examples and reasons to explain your choice.

24. Which natural disaster causes more damage to a city? A tornado, an earthquake, or a massive flood.

25. If you were stranded on a uninhabited lush island, which tool you would find most useful? A sharp knife, a firestick, or 10 meters of rope.

26. Which form of transportation do you find most useful in a large city? A car, a bus, or a subway.

27. Which invention has had more of an impact on people’s lives? The automobile, the computer, or the airplane.

28. What motivates employees to be more productive? Praise, monetary bonuses, or paid vacation time.

29.  Which job is most appealing to you? An airplane pilot, an accountant, or a teacher.

30. Which employee would you likely fire? One who often shows up late, one who complains a lot, or one who is lazy.

Giving advice topics 31-40

31. Your friend has a job interview tomorrow and is nervous. What advice would you give your friend to help him be calm?

32. Someone you know is preparing for an important biology exam. This exam requires a lot of memorization. What advice would you tell your friend so that he/she is well-prepared?

33. You have a friend from abroad who is coming to visit your city. What tourist attractions would you advise him to visit?

34. You have a sibling who is fat and wants to lose weight. What would you advise him/her to do to safely lose the extra pounds?

35. Someone you know doesn’t know what to major in.  What advice would you give him/her so that he/she can choose a career path?

36.  A friend you know needs to kick a roommate out of his apartment because your friend caught the roommate stealing. What advice would you give your friend in this situation?

37. You have a friend who wants to buy a gift for her boyfriend. However, your friend doesn’t know what to buy. What advice would you give her?

38. Your friend wants to ask his boss for a pay raise, but your friend doesn’t know how to do that. What advice would you give him?

39. Your friend is dating someone who smokes. However, your friend doesn’t like smokers. What advice would you give your friend.

40. Your friend is thinking of buying a new house. However, she is having trouble saving enough money for a down payment. What advice would you give her?

Task 2: Agree or Disagree, Preference, If / Imaginary, Description or Explanation, and Advantage and Disadvantage

Agree or disagree topics 41-50

41. Studying in a group is better than studying alone. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

42. Some say you should never let close friends borrow your car.  Do you agree or disagree with that statement?

43. Having a healthy economy is more important than environmental concerns. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

44. Cell phones should not be used in restaurants, movie theaters, and museums.  Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

45. Some politicians argue that all people in a society should be given a living wage, even if some they are unwilling to work. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

46. Being direct and completely honest in a conversation will help you to make more friends. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

47. Your peers have more of an influence on you than your peers. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

48. Lowering taxes is much better than raising them. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

49.  You should never give advice to coworkers. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

50. If you have gas, you should fart in public places as long as you do not let others know it was you. Do you agree or disagree with this idea?

Preference topics 51-60

51.  Some people prefer to buy used cars, while others like to purchase new ones. Which do you prefer and why?

52. Some students work during their education to pay for their tuition costs. In contrast, others students take loans instead. Which do you prefer? Give specific reasons and examples for your choice.

53. When having difficulty in class, some students will talk to other students in the class to get help. However, other students will talk to the professor about the course during his/her office hours. Which do you prefer and why? Give some examples and reasons to support your preference.

54. Some believe that drug dealers should get a lot of prison time, whereas others believe that they not go to jail at all. What position do you prefer and why?  Be sure to explain why.

55. Some people think politicians should serve indefinitely as long as voters keep electing them.  On the other hand, others believe that these political leaders should be limited to only two terms or no more than eight years. What position do you prefer? Give reasons and examples to support your choice.

56. Some people believe that you should not be honest if it hurts someone else’s feelings.  Other believe that you should be honest no matter what. Which belief do you prefer and why? Give examples and reasons to support your belief.

57. Some people believe we should stop drilling for oil. Others, however, think we should keep drilling for oil since it is so vital to our economy. Which belief do you prefer and why? Give some reasons and examples to support your point of view.

58. Some believe that poor people should be given a base income of money monthly to help them pay their bills. Other think that poor people should not become dependent on monthly governmental payments. Which position do you prefer?

59.  Some states in the United States have banned using hand-held phones while driving. Other states have not enacted laws restricting cell phone use while driving. Which opinion do you prefer and why? Use examples and reasons to support your point of view

60.  Some believe that marijuana and other recreational drugs should be legalized. Conversely, others believe that these drugs are harmful and should never be legalized. Which position do you prefer? Use some reasons and details to support your point of view.

If / imaginary topics 61-70

61. Imagine that you won a sum of 10 million dollars in the lottery.  In addition, you were required to donate 1/2 of those winnings to either a local hospital or a school. Which one would you donate the money to and why?

62. If you had to make one change about your past, what would that change be? Explain how making that change would have affected your life.

63. If you were granted one wish right now in your life, what would you wish for and why? Be sure to use some examples and reasons to support your answer

64. If you had a chance to learn a new language other than your first language and other than English, what language would you like to learn? Why would you want to learn that language?

65. If you were a doctor and were given unlimited funding for research, which disease would you most likely work to find a cure.  Why would finding a cure for this disease be beneficial for society?

66. If you could make one change about your country, what change would you want your country to make. Why would making that change be important?

67. If you could eliminate one recent invention in our civilization, what invention would you get rid of? Why would you want to eliminate that invention?

68. If you could pick any profession in the world, what job would you most likely want to have? Why would having that job be important for you?

69. If you were an astronaut and had the power to visit one planet in our solar system, which planet would you want to visit? Why would visiting that planet be important to you?

70.  If you had to will power to get rid of one unhealthy food from your diet, which food would you eliminate?  Why would getting rid of that food make you more healthy?

Description or explanation topics 71-80

71. Describe a person you know. Then explain why he/she is important to you.

72. What is a hobby that you like to do when you have free time? Explain why you enjoy this hobby so much.

73. What is an important skill that all students should learn before graduating from college. Explain why that skill is important in the workplace.

74. Describe a place you visited when you were younger. Explain a favorite memory you had while visiting that place.

75. What is an important skill for workers in the 21st century? Explain why learning that skill is so important.

76. Describe a place in your city that you would like tourists to visit. Then explain why these tourists should visit this place.

77. What is a difficult class you took when you were in high school? Explain why it was so hard for you.

78. Describe an activity that you like to do with your friends or family. Then explain why you like this activity so much.

79. Describe a main dish that you and your family enjoy.  Explain why you like eating this food so much.

80. What is a difficult obstacle or challenge that you have had to overcome? Explain why it was difficult and how  you overcame it.

Advantage and disadvantage topics 81-100

81. Some people are making most of their friends online without ever meeting these individuals in person. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this type of social interaction?

82. The government wants to build a military near your community. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a military facility near your neighborhood?

83. A professor has decided to let students grade the last oral presentation in his/her course. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having students, not the professor, grade each other?

84. A company wants to pay workers according to their productivity instead of paying them hourly. What are the advantages and disadvantages of doing this?

85. Some cultures encourage their residents to have parents arrange marriages for their children. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having arranged marriages?

86. Some tourists like to go on a vacation without a specific plan.  What are advantages and disadvantages of a spontaneous vacation?

87. Some consumers prefer to pay cash for everything they buy. What are advantages and disadvantages of avoiding the use of credit cards when purchasing new items?

88. Some say that people who sell drugs should not go to jail very long.  What are the advantages and disadvantages of the early release from prisons of criminals who sell drugs?

89. Many political leaders want to increase taxes on the rich up to 70% of their annual income, especially those who are millionaires or billionaires. What are the advantages and disadvantages of taxing the ultra-rich?

90. Los Angeles is considering making drivers pay additional taxes based on how many miles they drive each year. What are advantages and disadvantages of this consideration?

91. New homes should be required to install solar panels on their roofs so that the new owners can get clean energy from the sun. What are advantages and disadvantages of having this new mandate?

92. Some believe that we should have a wall at the southern border of the United States in order to stop the flow of illegal immigration. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this policy?

93. The city council has notified you that officials plan to build an elementary school right outside of your neighborhood. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having an educational facility near where you live?

94.  Your city wants to install cameras in major intersections all throughout town. The cameras will be used to issue traffic citations when drivers go through red lights without stopping. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having these traffic cameras installed?

95. In order to decrease obesity, some believe that an extra tax should be placed on sugary beverages such as Coca Cola and Pepsi. What are the advantages and disadvantages of taxing these sugary drinks?

96. In many graduate programs, professor encourage the students to teach many of the classes. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having students lead the discussions?

97. Some believe that all residents in a community should be required to grow some of the vegetables and fruits that they eat. What are the advantages and disadvantages requiring residents to have gardens?

98. Some think that scientists and doctors should be able to use genetic engineering to help parents choose the hair color, eye color, and even the height of their children. In addition, genetic engineering, some claim, can eliminate hereditary diseases.  What are the advantages and disadvantages of genetic engineering?

99.  Some countries place cameras on major freeways so that officials can send speeding tickets to reckless drivers. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having these cameras on freeways?

100. Some couples decide to move in together before they decide to marry. What are advantages and disadvantages of living with your boyfriend or girlfriend before marrying?

TOEFL Test-Taking Strategies for Integrated Speaking Tasks

Four integrated speaking tasks will test your speaking ability in four areas.

Integrated Speaking Task 3: Reading, Listening, Speaking–Campus-Related

Typically, on this speaking task, you will a reading 100 word passage about a new policy on a university campus. Then a student or students will discuss the new policy. As you take notes, you should focus on 1) and what the policy is according to the reading passage and 2) what the students’ opinions are about the new policy. I advise that you take some notes on a sheet of paper.  On the left column of the paper, focus on the most important points from the reading passage.  On the right hand column of the paper, focus on the most important points from the listening passage.

Integrated Speaking Task 4: Reading, Listening, Speaking–Academic

Similar to integrated speaking task 3,  you will read a passage and then listen to a lecture. However, this task is academic and much more difficult than integrated speaking task 3.  Typically, the reading passage will introduce an academic concept. Then the speaker will use an example to further illustrate the idea. When organizing your notes,  take the definition and any other relevant information and write it down on a sheet of paper much like you did with integrated task 3. In addition, you should pay close attention to the example that the professor gives in the lecture. Jot down that information in your notes.

Integrated Speaking Task 5: Listening, Speaking–Campus Related

During task 5, typically, you listen to passage. The first speaker explains a problem that s/he is having.  Moreover, the second speaker will present two solutions.  At the end of this passage, you will be asked to summarize the two solutions and then explain which one you think is more beneficial and why.  On a sheet of paper, identify what the problem is. Furthermore, write down two solutions the second speaker gives.  You should also be thinking about which solution you find more useful. During the preparation time, you can jot down in your notes which solution you like. Finally, write two reasons why you like that solution.

TOEFL integrated 5 examples notes

 

Integrated Speaking Task 6: Listening, Speaking–Academic

Similar to the structure of TOEFL integrated speaking task 4,  a professor will define an academic concept. In addition, the speaker will use two specific examples to further clarify the concept.  Or, the professor will explain two support points to elaborate on the concept more.  As a result, you need to get down in note form the definition plus the examples or details that the professor provides.

To help you more with the structure and organization of the integrated speaking tasks,  check out these additional TOEFL test-taking strategies: Getting the Main Idea of TOEFL Passages + Integrated Speaking and Writing Templates

Do NOT forget that you should not copy and use the templates from my web site or from anyone else’s. Use these example templates to see how to structure the ideas. Then you should create you own unique templates that you can use for each integrated speaking task.

 

Hire a TOEFL speaking mentor. He can help you reach 26 much faster than you think.

• If you want a TOEFL speaking mentor to give you feedback on how you are doing as you practice these 100 topics, I will be that mentor.  For only $45, you can e-mail me your audio recording of these speaking topics daily. I will listen to, evaluate, score, and provide audio feedback so you can understand your delivery, language-use, and topic development problems. I will correct all of your errors until you are not making them anymore. Then you know you are ready to take the TOEFL exam.
• After you join, your first week of practice is free! You can send me a practice test every day for 30 days; each time I will provide you feedback so you can monitor your progress. Your subscription also includes unlimited access to all 700 of my vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, listening, reading, writing, and speaking lessons.
• Join Now so you can start sending me your speaking practice!

Below are additional helpful links for your speaking practice:

Useful TOEFL test-taking strategies links for speaking

Get example templates for integrated speaking tasks 3-6.

English TOEFL speaking test practice: These TOEFL test-taking strategies will help you learn how you can begin practicing with a mentor your TOEFL speaking today for only $45 monthly.

TOEFL integrated speaking practice: Learn why paraphrasing is important during the integrated speaking tasks.

Free TOEFL speaking resources: Get access to all the free resources that you need, including being able to get ONE speaking practice test evaluated by a TOEFL speaking mentor with more than 25 years of experience. In short, this link takes you to many TOEFL test-taking strategies to help you reach 26+ on the speaking section.

High TOEFL speaking score: Learn the TOEFL test-taking strategies that  Bruno used, after having taken the TOEFL five times, so that he finally scored 28 on the speaking section.

Speaking and Writing Transitions:  Learn TOEFL test-taking strategies representing the different kinds of connecting words that you can use to improve your speaking and writing skills.

TOEFL Tips to Score 26:  Learn a tried and proven method to help you reach your target score of 26.

TOEFL Vocabulary for speaking and writing tasks.  Get a 261 page eBook containing 1,700 college-level words. Learn 50 of the most important reporting verbs for your integrated speaking and writing tasks. This e-book will explain TOEFL test-taking strategies that you can use when  you see unfamiliar words on the TOEFL exam.

Paraphrasing with voice markers:  Learn TOEFL test-taking strategies called voice markers and how these words can help you to more coherently organize your integrated speaking and writing tasks.

TOEFL speaking integrated task 4 tips and tricks.

Complete a free TOEFL speaking practice test: Learn how to complete a speaking practice and get feedback from a TOEFL speaking specialist. Your feedback from this practice test will teach you TOEFL test-taking strategies to help you score higher.

Using appositives in your TOEFL speaking tasks: Learn how to appositives to advance your grammar.

Four language tips for TOEFL speaking.

Two pronunciation sounds you must master!

TOEFL speaking and writing: keep your words clear and precise.

This student’s practice test scores 26+ for three reasons: Listen to a practice test that scores 26+.

TOEFL Test-Taking Strategies: Writing

TOEFL test-taking strategies for independent writing task.

This is a personal experience writing task. Therefore, you are creating content. Furthermore, you need to be as organized as you can.  Here are some important TOEFL test-taking strategies to score higher.

• You need about a 100 word introduction, as is explained in this lesson, to frame this type of response.  In addition, you will need to create a sharply focused thesis.  I have some example thesis templates that you can try out. However, please remember that you should create your own thesis statements and not just memorize mine: CLICK HERE.  In this other lesson  (Mastering the Art of the Three-Point Thesis), I will explain to you how to create a three-point thesis.
• As you move through each body paragraph, make sure that you use topic sentences (See examples of how to do this) which restate one of the points mentioned in your thesis.
• You should have an effective overall connection, as you will read here, of each paragraph as they relate to other paragraphs. In addition, you need to make sure that each paragraph is tightly framed. To also help you, consider using specific transition words (You can get a good list on this web page) to make it easier for TOEFL iBT human raters and eRater to understand.
• Make sure you end your essay with a conclusion. Learn how to write strong conclusions for the independent and integrated tasks: CLICK HERE,
• To get many more helpful links with both integrated and independent writing practice, go to my Free TOEFL Writing Resources web page.

100 TOEFL Independent Writing Topics

On the independent writing task, you will see three different kinds of questions: agree or disagree, explain both sides, make an argument from multiple sides. Below are 100 sample writing topics that you can start practicing today. By practicing these topics right now, you will learn  TOEFL test-taking strategies to help you to improve your writing.  The TOEFL test-taking strategies that you learn will also help you develop better control of your grammar and vocabulary. Finally, practicing these topics will help you learn TOEFL test-taking strategies to help you improve your topic development.

Agree or disagree:

1.Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? “Nuclear power is a useful source of energy for the future.” Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion. View Model Response

2. “Higher education should only be allowed to good students.”  Do you agree of disagree with this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your point of view.

3. “In order to find new cures for cancer, doctors should be allowed to perform medical experiments on humans.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea?

4. “The government in a country should pay for all healthcare services.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Use some examples and reasons to support your ideas.

5. “It is much better to attend a small university than a large one.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your argument.

6. “Professional athletes, musicians, and actors should not be paid million of dollars a year.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and details to support your point of view.

7.  “The government should provide free college education to those who want to attend.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Provide reasons and details to support your argument.

8.  “Drug dealers should be put to death.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea?  Provide some reasons and details to illustrate your argument.

9.  “Countries should ban smoking.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Make sure that you provide some examples and reasons to support your points.

10.  “Universities should ban sports activities so students can on concentrate on academics.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Present some reasons and examples to support your assertions.

11. “Governments should require companies to pay their employees a living wage.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some reasons and examples to support your argument.

12.  “Texts and other distracted driving activities should be banned.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Use some reasons and examples to support your opinion.

13.  “Doctors should not be allowed to put their patients to death when the patients request it.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view?

14. Do you agree or disagree with the following idea?  “Smokers who get lung cancer should be able to sue the cigarette companies for monetary damages.” Give reasons and examples to support your point of view.

15. “Imposing a tax on sugary drinks, candy, and on other forms of junk food will effectively decrease the obesity problem in society.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some reasons to explain your point of view.

16.  ” Television should be allowed to show cigarette and alcohol advertisements.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view.

17.  Do you agree or disagree with this idea? “Homeowners should have limits on how much garbage they create weekly.” Give some reasons and examples to support your point of view.

18. “Governments should set aside a considerable amount of money for space exploration.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some reasons and examples to support your point of view.

19. “Every country in the world should be limited in how much pollution it creates each year.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some reasons and examples to support your point of view.

20.  “Smartphones should be banned from all college classrooms.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view.

21. “Getting an online education is much better than taking traditional classes.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view.

22. Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view. “Science classes are much more beneficial than art and music courses.”

23.  “College students should not be required to attend classes.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view.

24. “Many places in the United States have banned smoking in outdoor places such as concerts, parks, and beaches.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view.

25.  “Playing sports in college can be just as beneficial as taking academic classes such as math and science.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view.

26. Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view. “Some suggest that working from home can be just as effective as having the employee show up for work in person.”

27. “Many suggest that technological progress such as the Internet, smartphones, and self-driving cars has a positive effect on our civilization.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view.

28. Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view. “Women should get exactly the same pay as men for doing exactly the same job.”

29.  “Movies can tell us a lot about the culture where these movies are made.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view.

30. “It is more important to invest money in a business rather than in a house.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view.

31.  Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view. “Building a university in your hometown would have a positive effect.”

32. Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view. “High school children should be required to wear uniforms.”

33.  “Changing your job frequently will have a very positive effect on your life.” Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Give some examples and reasons to support your point of view.

Explain both sides:

34. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of attending a large university versus a small one.  Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

35. Many people nowadays are turning exercise in order to maintain their health. Compare running versus riding a bicycle as a viable form of exercise. Then explain which form of exercise you prefer. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

36.  What are the advantages and disadvantages of eating at home versus eating at restaurants? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

37.  Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of having a woman boss versus having a man boss. Which type of boss would you prefer to work for? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

38.  Compare the advantages of living in a big city versus living in the countryside. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

39.  What are the advantages of living in a colder climate versus living in a warmer one. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

40.  You are a boss working at a large company, and you need to hire a new worker. What are the advantages and disadvantages of hiring an older (40 years old+) or a younger worker (25 years+)? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. View Model Response

41. What are the advantages and disadvantages of getting your news from the newspaper versus the television? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

42. You live in a town with a lot of traffic. In addition, you need to drive a distance of 25 kilometers to get to work.  What are the advantages of taking the bus versus driving. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

43. Every day, we communicate with others at home, at work, or with our friends. Compare the advantages of face-to-face communication versus electronic texting with our smartphones. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

44.  Some believe that changing jobs often is beneficial. In contrast, others prefer to work at one job their entire lives.  Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these two preferences. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

45.  Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of parents’ financially supporting their children, even when they get married. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

46. What are the advantages and disadvantages of trying new things? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

47. To achieve success, some people like to takes risks in life. In contrast, other people believe success is obtained through careful planning.  What are the advantages for these two opposing attitudes toward success? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

48.  Some believe that a person should make decisions alone. In contrast, others believe that a person should consult friends and family when making decisions. What are the advantages and disadvantages of these two ways of thinking? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

49.  A company is choosing to donate some money. What are the advantages of donating the money to either the arts or the environment? Then explain which area you would want the money to go to. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

50.  Some believe that earning a lot of money is important. However, others believe that earning just enough money is preferable.  Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each philosophy regarding money.

51.  You may have some friends who are super smart. Other friends you know may be funny. Discuss the advantages of having smart and funny friends. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

52. By taking an extra load of courses each term, some students finish their bachelor’s degree in an amazing two years.  Other students take more time and finish their bachelor’s degree in the normal four years of study. What are the advantages and disadvantages of these two methods of study? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

53.  Some first-time homeowners will  save up money so that they can pay cash for their houses. On the other hand, others will take out bank loans so that they can buy their homes.  What are the advantages toward these two approaches of purchasing homes? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

54.  Many workers prefer to work for  companies. Others, however, prefer to be self-employed, so they start their own businesses. What are the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of jobs? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

55. Some cities try to preserve some of the older, historic buildings.  Other cities, conversely,  destroy these old buildings and replace them with more modern ones. What are the advantages and disadvantages toward old and new buildings? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

56.  In many elementary school classrooms, teachers assign homework to students.  In other cases, teachers prefer to not assign much homework at all.  What are the advantages and disadvantages toward this homework policy? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

57.  Some parents introduce to their 3-8 year old children a foreign language. Other parents wait until their children are 14-17 years of age before introducing them to a foreign language. What are the advantages toward introducing a foreign language to children in these two age groups? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

58. Some people like to travel alone. On the other hand, others like to go on trips led by tour guides. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of going on these two types of trips. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

59. Some schools allow boys and girls to study together in the same classroom.  Other schools, however, separate the genders into boys-only and girls-only classrooms. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of classrooms. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

60.   The automobile was invented more than 100 years ago.  Shortly thereafter, the airplane was invented. Compare these two modes of transportation. Then explain which one has contributed more to the development of our civilization. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

61. When you attend a dormitory in a university, sometimes you are allowed to select your own roommate. In other cases, university officials will assign you a roommate. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having these two types of roommates? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

62. Students who attend universities will decide where they will live. Some of the students prefer to live on campus in dormitories. Other students, in contrast, prefer to live off campus in apartments. What are the advantages and disadvantages of these two types of living arrangements?

63.  Before big exams, some students like to study in the library. Other students prefer to study at their dorm or apartment. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each study location. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

64. Everyone likes to learn new things.  Some of these people like to learn by doing. Others prefer to learn more by reading. Compare these two methods of learning. Then explain which form of learning you prefer. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

65.  Many people enjoy reading as a hobby. Some people, therefore, like reading nonfiction books (news events, documentaries, and biographies). Others, however, like reading fiction (short stories and books). Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of reading nonfiction and fiction books. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

66.  Some students like to attend lectures in which the professor does most of the talking. In contrast, other students like to attend classes which are more student-centered classrooms. In student-centered classrooms, students do most of the talking.  Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both types of classrooms. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

Make an argument from multiple sides:

67. Most of us wish we were more humorous, had more intelligence, or could show more empathy toward others. If you could learn one valuable personality trait, which trait would you want to learn. Explain why this personality trait would be important for you. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

68. What is the most important quality of a good friend? Explain why this quality is most important in a friendship. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

69. What is one thing that you would like to change about your city? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

70. Choosing a university is an important selection that students must make. In your opinion, what is the most important quality that you must consider? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

71. If you could choose any place to visit in the world, which location would you want you visit. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice. View Model Response

72.  Inventions such as the airplane, the automobile, and the Internet have bigly impacted civilization. Which invention has impacted our society more?  Your answer is NOT limited to the inventions listed in this question. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

73.  While students attend universities, they will have to complete a large number of homework assignments. What is the most important strategy for completing these challenging and time-consuming assignments? Use specific reasons and examples to explain why your homework strategy is so important.

74.  During your life, you will have some overcome many obstacles. What is one obstacle that you had to overcome? Explain why overcoming this challenge was so difficult. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

75.  Everyone wants to achieve success whether it is in academics, work, family, or friendships. What is one quality that you feel is necessary for a person to be successful in all of these areas of life? Explain why this quality is so important in helping a person to be successful. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

76.  In relationships among lovers and friends, there is a term called a deal breaker. A deal breaker refers to something that abruptly ends almost any relationship. In your opinion, what is a deal breaker that you think would automatically end a relationship. Explain why this deal breaker would be so damaging. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

77.  When students finish college, they will search for a job so that they can earn a living wage. What is a dream job that you would love to have? Explain why you want that job so much. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

78. There are many different ways to learn a new language. What do you think is an effective way to learn a new language? Explain why that method is so helpful. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

79. Many argue that parents have a tremendous influence on their children’s mental growth and development. What is the most important thing that you have learned from your parents? Explain why being taught this one thing has been so important in your life. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

80. Nowadays, we have many useful conveniences in our households that make it easier for us to complete our day-to-day tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and entertaining ourselves. What is the single most convenient thing that you have in your living space? Explain why this one thing makes it easier for you to live your life. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

81. A tourist has one week to visit your country. What location do you think the tourist should visit? Explain why visiting that place would be so important. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

82. Describe a custom that you would like people from other countries to adopt. Explain why it would be important to adopt this custom. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

83.  During our lifetimes, we will make many friends. What is the most important quality in a choosing a friend? Explain why this quality is so important in a friendship. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

84. In the 21st century, people are becoming busier in their personal, academic, and professional lives. Of course, with this comes responsibilities. As a result, people are starting to feel more stress compared to people who lived many years ago. What is the best method of reducing stress? Explain why this method is so effective in reducing the stress that many people feel. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

85. Many of us have free time after work or school. Some of us like to watch television, whereas others like to read books.  Other people may like to go shopping.  What is one thing you like to do when you have free time. Explain why you like to do this activity so much. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

86. What is something that you are thinking about buying? How will buying this item improve the quality of your life? Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

87. Choose a friend or family member who is important to you. Explain how this person has influenced you to become the person you are today. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

88.  Who is a political or religious figure that you admire? Explain why you admire this person so much. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

89.  Choose a memorable class that you took either as a high school or college student. Explain what you learned from this class and why it was so enjoyable to you. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

90. What is something that you have not done yet but would like to accomplish?  Explain why accomplishing that one thing will benefit your life. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

91.   What is one change that your hometown can make that would benefit you and your friends? Explain why this change would be so beneficial to your community. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

92.  What is a difficult decision that you have had to make? Explain how making this decision has benefitted your life. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

93.  There are many worthy causes that financially-abled people cannot donate to: cancer centers, homeless shelters, hospitals, educational facilities, and so on. Choose a cause that you think people should donate to. Explain why donating to this cause is important. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

94.  Nowadays many social media applications exist online that people can use to communicate with others. What social media application do you like to use? Explain how using this application has improved your life. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

95.  During their lives, people make mistakes sometimes and improve their lives consequently from these problems. What is a valuable lesson that you learned from a mistake that you made in your life? How has learning this vital lesson improved yourself as a person? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

96. Describe a classmate who had an important influence over you in high school or college. Explain why this classmate was so important in your life. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

97.  What is the most important quality in a professor who teaches undergraduate and graduate courses at a university? Explain why this quality is so important to his/her students. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

98.  There are many problems in the world such as war, environmental issues, hunger, crime, unemployment, and so on. What is one world problem that you would like solved? Explain how solving this world problem would benefit everyone on Earth.

99. What type of music do you like to listen to? Explain why you enjoy listening to this type of music so much. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

100. Suppose you could travel back in time to experience a different period. Which period of time would you like to travel back to? Explain why you would like to experience that time period. Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

TOEFL test-taking strategies for integrated writing task.

The structure of the integrated writing task is somewhat similar to what are already learned with integrated speaking task 4. However, this time you are spending about 20 minutes writing your response. The first step is to take accurate notes on both the reading and the listening passages.  Take your notes in a way so you can align reading point 1 with listening point 1, reading point 2 with listening point 2, and reading point 3 with listening point 3.

Once you are done taking your notes, you are ready to write this response by following these TOEFL test-taking strategies:

• Your introduction should be about 25 words. Your purpose is to connect the main point of the listening and reading passages, as you learn in this lesson.
• There are some TOEFL test-taking strategies regarding how you organize your paragraphs. Keep each body paragraph around 100 words.  Use 1/2 of the paragraph to explain a main point from the reading. The other 1/2 of the paragraph should explain a main point from the lecture, as you see this structure being used in this lesson.
• Use transition words in key junctures of each paragraph.  For example, you could use a transition words such as “first,” “second,” or “third” in the first line of each body paragraph. Then you can use a transition word of contrast such as “in contrast,” “however,” and “on the other hand,” as you transition from your reading summary to your listening summary. Learn on this web page how to use these important connecting words. Using transition words are important TOEFL test-taking strategies for help you improve the organization.
• Make sure that you frame your integrated writing task from the author’s and speaker’s points of view. In other words, with these TOEFL test-taking strategies, you should be using voice markers to acknowledge these sources. You acknowledge this information, as you can see in this lesson, by using TOEFL reporting verbs. Put another way, you should be writing from the third person point of view.
• Finally, make sure that you write a short sentence concluding your response.  See an example conclusion for the TOEFL integrated writing task.

Useful TOEFL test-taking strategies links for writing

A few weeks back, I created a free TOEFL writing resources web page. This web page will list 30 additional links to articles I wrote:

• Grammar Practice
• Depth and progression of ideas
• Thesis statements
• Model responses
• Organization
• Practice

Go to my free TOEFL writing resources web page!

Get a TOEFL writing mentor to grade the writing practice tests you complete.

Hire a TOEFL writing mentor. He can help you reach 24+ a lot faster than if you go it alone. If you practice with a TOEFL writing mentor, you will learn theTOEFL test-taking on this web page very quickly. For only $45 monthly, you can begin completing any of the 100 topics and then sending them to a TOEFL writing mentor to be scored. I will be that TOEFL writing mentor.  You can send me ONE independent or ONE integrated writing practice every day. I will read, evaluate, and score them so that you can monitor your progress. Your $45 payment also enrolls you in STEALTH, “The 7-Step System to Pass the TOEFL iBT.”  After I read and score each of your writing practice tests, I will recommend specific TOEFL test-taking strategies to help you score higher based on your weaknesses.

 

Michael Buckhoff and some of his TOEFL students at California, State University, San Bernardino

Tell everyone you know about this free TOEFL test-taking strategies web page. I hope that you can improve your TOEFL score. I also hope that you can improve your reading, listening, speaking, and writing subtotal scores after learning and practicing these TOEFL test-taking strategies.

May the next TOEFL test you take be your last!

Michael Buckhoff, mbuckhoff@aol.com

http://onlinetoeflcourse.com

 

 

 

 

Before TOEFL test day, you want to make sure that you have a TOEFL preparation plan.  Having such a plan will help you make the improvements you need to make so that you avoid TOEFL Hell. No student wants to visit TOEFL Hell.

TOEFL Preparation Plan: Find your level before you do anything else.

If you have taken a TOEFL exam, you will have a score report.  This report will help you understand why you scored the way you did. Email this score report to me at mbuckhoff@aol.com.  I will use the score report to recommend a specific course to help you address your weaknesses.

TOEFL Preparation Plan: Make sure you have a specific target score and subtotal scores.

In addition to knowing your level, you need to set a specific target score and subtotal scores.  If you aim at nothing, you will hit nothing. Find out where you want to attend college and what the TOEFL requirements are. If you need TOEFL for a professional license, find out what score you need to clear your credential.

TOEFL Preparation Plan: Stick to the plan.

Once you get your TOEFL study guide, follow it.  Remember the saying, “Rome was not built in a day.” In other words, improving your TOEFL score will take a month or more before you will see progress. Every course I have will give you ample practice with vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. In addition, you will get practice with listening, reading, writing, and speaking. As you practice in these seven skill areas, you will slowly but steadily improve your academic English. To help you make the improvements that you seek, keep in the mind the following suggestions:

• Use your TOEFL course for the recommended period of time.
• Study all the recommended lessons, especially the vocabulary ones!
• Send at least 2-3 speaking practice tests to me every week so you can get feedback.
• Complete 2-3 writing practice tests each week. Send them to me so that I can provide feedback so you can monitor your progress.

TOEFL Preparation Plan: Final comments

During your study, you will be studying 2-3 hours a day for a 1, 3, 6, or 12 month period. At the end of your study, you should take a full-length four hour TOEFL practice test. If your practice test score is the same or higher than your target score and subtotal scores, register for the TOEFL exam.

However, if your TOEFL practice test score is lower, email me your results. Together, we will work on making some modifications in your study plan so that you can reach your goals.

Choose a course plan right now!

You will practice your TOEFL lessons here.

Good luck!

Michael Buckhoff, mbuckhoff@aol.com

 

 

 

The free TOEFL writing resources on this web page will help in seven important areas:

1. Grammar
2. Depth and progression of ideas
3. Thesis statements
4. Model responses
5. Organization
6. Practice

Free TOEFL Writing Resources: Improving your grammar

• Between and Among are frequently confused words in TOEFL writing. Do you know how to use these two words correctly?
• Do you know how to use prepositions, subordinators, coordinators, and transition words to connect your ideas together?  Learn how to do this right now.
• Free TOEFL Practice Tests: Find your speaking and writing level
• The TOEFL independent writing task will require specific verb tenses.  Similarly, the integrated writing task typically will require one specific verb tense.  Learn how to control your verb tenses during the TOEFL writing tasks.

Free TOEFL Writing Resources: Having depth and complexity of thought

• Do you want to write a high-scoring conclusion for the independent and integrated writing task?  Keep reading.
• Get writing practice in four important areas: thesis statements, arguable topic sentences, well-supported paragraphs, and coherent organization.
• Get more depth and complexity of thought. Learn how to write a sharply-focused thesis.
• Should you only write 300 words for the independent writing task? Get the answer.
• To score 24+ on the TOEFL writing section, you need to write a strong introduction + conclusion. Here is how you do it.

Free TOEFL Writing Resources:  Improving your thesis statements

• Example TOEFL Thesis: Learn why writing a 20+ word thesis is a brilliant strategy.
• What words work best in thesis statements? Do you know how to write thesis statements for the four most common independent writing topics? Learn why using precise and clear words will help you score higher on the writing section of the TOEFL iBT.
• Writing a three-point thesis for the independent writing task will help you write a coherently organized essay. Learn how to write one.

Free TOEFL Writing Resources: Motivational Stories

• TOEFL Independence Day for Iris: It was not easy, but Iris finally freed herself from the chains of the TOEFL exam when she scored 27 on  the writing section of the exam.

Free TOEFL Writing Resources: Viewing model responses

• Advantage and disadvantage TOEFL model essay
• Do you know how many words you should write for the TOEFL independent writing task?  Get the answer to this question. Also, see a model response.
• How many words should you write for the TOEFL integrated writing task? Learn this and see a model response: Get your free lesson right now.
• Laura scored 30/30 on the writing section of the TOEFL iBT.  She has some important tips to help you score high as well.
• Read an actual TOEFL independent writing topic that appeared on the exam.  See a sample response of how you could write a high-scoring answer. Learn a template that you can use for TOEFL integrated writing.
• Read an essay of a student who scored 20/30 points on an independent writing practice test.  See what changes she will have to make in order to score higher.
• See some sample templates and model responses for the TOEFL independent and integrated writing practice tasks. Click Here.
• This integrated writing practice test scored 22/30 points. Learn why and see a modified version of her essay that would score 30/30 points.
• See a live demo of a student who scored 20/30 pts. The TOEFL mentor shows the student what changes need to be made so that he score 30/30 pts.  Watch the video.
• TOEFL Task 2 Example Score of 21/30 points: See what you need to do to avoid the mistakes the writer makes in this example TOEFL task 2.
• TOEFL Writing Feedback on Two Tests: See common mistakes writer make druing the TOEFL independent and integrated writing tasks. You will also learn how to correct those mistakes.

Free TOEFL Writing Resources: Organizing ideas more coherently

• At least four tools can help you to connect your ideas more coherently.  Start practicing them today.
• One simple trick will help you to create arguable, more on-task topic sentences. Learn how to do this right now.
• Learn an important trick. This trick will help you to keep your writing organized so that you are directly addressing this writing task.
• TOEFL connecting words can help you to organize your writing more coherently. Do you know what these words are and how to use them?

Free TOEFL Writing Resources: Getting practice

• Do you have only one month to improve your TOEFL writing? Read this article.
• Have you taken the TOEFL exam over and over but still cannot get your writing score of 24? You had better read this article.
• Have you thought of getting writing feedback so that you can reach your writing target score of 24 much faster?  Read more about how feedback may be the solution.
• Listen, read, and take notes on shorter to gradually longer and longer passages. Then make a recording explaining how the information in the listening passage connects to the information in the reading passage. There are 50 practice exercises to help you improve your integrated writing skills. Compare your response to listening scripts and suggested model paraphrases to see if you are accurately and completely explaining the information: Integrated Writing Practice
• Practicing effectively will help you to reach your writing dream score much faster. Learn what you should be doing right now to improve.
• Take a free writing practice test. The TOEFL writing mentor will score your essay from 0-30 points. Finally, he will provide you some written or audio feedback so that you can understand your strengths and weaknesses as a writer.
• TOEFL Essay Topics to Help You Score High: See examples of common essay topics appearing on the TOEFL iBT.
• TOEFL Independent Writing Strategies:  At nearly 7,000 words, this lesson is the only one you will need to prepare for TOEFL writing task 2.
• TOEFL Integrated Writing Strategies: At 3075 words, this is the most comprehensive integrated writing lesson I have ever written. In this lesson, you will see multiple lists of transition words.  In addition, you will learn how to summarize reading and listening passages from the third person point of view. Moreover, this lesson teaches you how to use a chunking compare and contrast organization.  Furthermore, you will get great tips on how you can create your own unique template. Lastly, you will take a mock practice test, after which you will be able to compare your notes and essay to model notes and a model response.
• TOEFL Transition Words: Learn 100’s of phrases and transition words to help you argue, suggest, choose, emphasize, add, generalize, restate, set up a condition, show cause/effect, show contrast, exemplify, disagree, agree, show similarity, indicate spatial relationships, state options, explain problems, illustrate reasons, and to summarize/conclude.

Free TOEFL Writing Resources: Using appropriate vocabulary

• Do you know how to use reporting verbs during the TOEFL integrated writing task?  Do you know why you should use them?  You had better study this lesson if you are not sure.
• Get your list of 1,700 college-level words. Learn how to use 50 important  reporting verbs.

If you want to practice what you are learning on this web page, you can send me writing practice tests daily. As you practice, I will score your writing practice test so you can monitor your progress. To learn more, go to http://onlinetoeflcourse.com

Writing Tips

• Avoid TOEFL Templates: Thinking of using writing templates during the TOEFL exam? After you read this article, you will never again use Google to search for the following key words: “TOEFL speaking templates.”

Good luck!

Michael Buckhoff, mbuckhoff@aol.com

http;//stealth.michaelbuckhoff.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The free TOEFL speaking resources on this web page have three purposes. 1) These lessons will motivate you as you read success stories of students who were able to reach their dream speaking scores. 2) These articles will even allow you post and get free speaking feedback from a qualified mentor. You will also get essential practice with pronunciation, grammar, and topic development. 3) Other articles will give you the speaking tips and tricks that you need to reach your target score of 26.

Free TOEFL Speaking Resources: Motivational Stories

• Learn more, as is provided in this link, about Cris’s TOEFL journey. Over a period of eight months, he took the TOEFL iBT eight times before he reached a score of 26.
• Alexandria diligently used her Online TOEFL Course to reach her goal of 26 on the speaking section. Read her story.
• Have you read about Tomas’s journey in which he reached his dream score of 28?  Go Here.
• Dina took the TOEFL exam six times before she scored 26. You’ve got to read her story.
• Hyun speaking subtotal score was 21. Later he scored 26. Learn how he did it.
• Lana teared when she saw her most recent TOEFL speaking score…26.  Her previous score was 23. Read Her Story.

Free TOEFL Speaking Resources: Speaking Practice

• Complete a free TOEFL speaking practice test and get an estimated score from 0-30 points. A TOEFL speaking mentor will listen to and evaluate your speaking practice test. This mentor has more than 25 years of TOEFL teaching experience. He has graded more than 25,000 independent and integrated speaking practice tests. Take your free TOEFL speaking practice test right now.
• Get practice with two of the most frequently mispronounced vowel sounds in American English. Get your lesson now.
• Improve your pronunciation in this one area. “What area are you talking about?” you ask.
• Learn the four sentence types to use in your speaking responses. Read More.
• Listen, read, and take notes on shorter to gradually longer and longer passages. Then make a recording explaining how the information in the listening passage connects to the information in the reading passage. There are 50 practice exercises to help you improve your integrated speaking skills. Compare your response to listening scripts and suggested model paraphrases to see if you are accurately and completely explaining the information: Integrated Speaking Practice
• TOEFL Speaking Responses: See example independent speaking responses scored from 1-4. Moreover, answer some multiple choice questions in which you actually score real students who completed TOEFL independent speaking practice tests. Compare your score to an iBT specialist who has more than 30 years of TOEFL teaching and placement testing experience.
• TOEFL Speaking Topics: Learn the most common independent speaking topics appearing on the TOEFL exam right now. In addition, get strategies to organize and develop these types of speaking tasks so that you can score high.
• TOEFL Transition Words: Learn 100’s of phrases and transition words to help you argue, suggest, choose, emphasize, add, generalize, restate, set up a condition, show cause/effect, show contrast, exemplify, disagree, agree, show similarity, indicate spatial relationships, state options, explain problems, illustrate reasons, and to summarize/conclude.
• Understand how to organize your speaking tasks.  Go to the Lesson now.
• There is a little known trick to improve her pronunciation. If you learn how to do this trick effectively, you will eliminate the awkward pauses and hesitations that are bringing your score down.  Practice This Trick Now.
• Learn three important delivery tips to help you speak more clearly. Practice Now.
• Get the TOEFL tips and tricks that you need to improve your speaking score. Learn More.

Free TOEFL Speaking Resources: Speaking Tips

• Are you having trouble speaking fluently?  Do you find yourself stopping during the speaking to find the right word or grammar?  Do you have trouble knowing how to pronounce the words that you want to say? Click Here.
• Avoid TOEFL Templates: Thinking of using speaking templates during the TOEFL exam? After you read this article, you will never again use Google to search for the following key words: “TOEFL speaking templates.”
• Learn how to minimize grammar errors on the speaking section by minimizing one important error. Read More.
• New TOEFL Speaking Section in August 2019: Learn what the newest version (Aug 2019) of the speaking section looks like. In addition, get the most important test-taking strategies so that you can score higher than 26!
• Are you doing these five things right now to improve your TOEFL speaking score? Read More.
• Have you ever wondered why it is so hard to score 26?  Read More.
• Make sure you avoid this ONE language-use error during the speaking section of the TOEFL iBT. Learn more.
• Do you know how to use the subjunctive mood when you are speaking? What if a speaking tasks asks you to talk about a present or past impossible condition? Will you use the correct grammar in both of these cases?  Read More.
• Learn why understanding the question’s structure is important to helping you score high.  Learn More.
• Only 10% of all students reach the score of 26.  These high-scoring students do a lot of practice in three important areas: Click Here.
• Do you know what templates to use for the integrated tasks?  Get Yours Here.
• This eight minute video will teach you the most important steps that you need to take to score 26. Keep Reading.
• Learn the most important study secrets to help you score 26+. Unpack Them Right Now.
• Learn the most important TOEFL Independent Speaking Strategies to help you score 26+. This is the most comprehensive lesson about TOEFL speaking tasks 1-2 that I have ever written: http://bettertoeflscores.com/toefl-independent-speaking-strategies/10037/
• This 11,057 word lesson teaches you the most important TOEFL integrated speaking strategies for tasks 3-5: http://bettertoeflscores.com/toefl-integrated-speaking-strategies/10102/
• If you speaking score is around 19 and if you want to score 26+, read this article.
• TOEFL Example Score of 23/30 on Speaking: Most students get stuck at 23 on the speaking section. Listen to a response that scores 23 and find out what the student (and you!) needs to do to score higher.
• What does someone who scores 24 sound like?  How does this person improve to 26?  Read the answer and hear the student’s sample recording.

I hope that you have enjoyed these resources.

Michael Buckhoff, mbuckhoff@aol.com

http://onlinetoeflcourse.com

 

 

 

 

 

The free TOEFL resources on this web page will help you to improve. In addition, these resources will be divided into vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, listening, reading, writing, and speaking skill sets. Lastly, you will see some links along with an explanation of the resources associated with that link.

Please share these free TOEFL resources with your friends.  Most students have no idea that I am offering these services for free. As a result, they spend way too much money trying to pass the TOEFL iBT.

Free TOEFL Resources: Vocabulary Help

http://www.michaelbuckhoff.com/vocabulary/1700words.pdf: This link takes you to a free 261 page vocabulary E-book. The E-book contains all the words you need to know. Learn the words on this list. Then you will stand a good chance of scoring higher than 100/120 on the TOEFL iBT.  Follow the instructions for learning the words on this mighty list.

Free TOEFL Resources: Pronunciation Practice

http://bettertoeflscores.com/three-toefl-delivery-tips/8907/: Get pronunciation practice from the most influential accent reduction coach in the world. Learn how sentence rhythm, intonation, and thought groups and blending are important in helping you score higher on the speaking section of the TOEFL iBT.

Free TOEFL Resources: Grammar Practice Tests

http://bettertoeflscores.com/toefl-grammar-practice-test/8635/: Complete a TOEFL practice test that diagnoses your sentence structure, grammar, punctuation in the 23 specific areas.  After the test, you can complete lessons at specific web sites to improve your weak points.

Free TOEFL Resources: Listening Tips

http://bettertoeflscores.com/toefl-ibt-listening-practice-test-2/5090/ : Listen to a lecture and complete a TOEFL listening comprehension practice test.

http://bettertoeflscores.com/toefl-ibt-listening-practice-test-diamonds/2028/: Complete a TOEFL listening practice test about diamonds.

http://bettertoeflscores.com/toefl-ibt-listening-getting-the-gist-2/5715/: Learn how to get the gist of listening passages so that you can improve your listening comprehension score.

http://bettertoeflscores.com/toefl-ibt-listening-purpose-and-function-2/5643/; Learn how to listen more effectively for purpose and function.

Free TOEFL Resources: Speed Reading Practice

http://bettertoeflscores.com/toefl-reading-paraphrase-question/8794/: Learn how to answer the reading paraphrase question type. Then reinforce your learning by completing reading practice exercises plus comprehension test questions to monitor your progress.

http://bettertoeflscores.com/toefl-reading-strategies/8669/: Learn the most effective strategies that you should apply during the TOEFL exam.

https://onlinetoeflcourse.com/toefl-articles/toefl-speed-reading-test/: Did you know that you should be able to read at 300 words per minute when you are taking the TOEFL exam? Do you even know what your reading speed is?  The free TOEFL resources at this link will guide you through seven speed reading practice tests + comprehension test questions.  The first speed reading practice test is 100 words per minute. The last one is 400 words per minute. Can you complete every one of them with 60%-80% comprehension?

Free TOEFL Resources: Test Information

• How do I score 115 on the TOEFL? Scoring above 110 is almost impossible for all but a few test-takers. Do you think you can score this high? You had better read this article.
• “If your TOEFL score is 51”” Get the right study plan if you TOEFL score is 51/120.
• New TOEFL 2019 Changes: Learn what the August 2019 version of the TOEFL exam looks like and how you can prepare for this important academic proficiency test.

Free TOEFL Resources: Writing Instruction

https://onlinetoeflcourse.com/free-toefl-writing-evaluation/:  At this link, you will sign up to complete a free TOEFL writing practice test evaluation by Michael Buckhoff.  Buckhoff will read, evaluate, and score your writing practice test. He will e-mail you some written or audio comments to help you understand your strengths and weaknesses.

http://bettertoeflscores.com/many-words-toefl-integrated-writing-task/8923/: Learn how many words you should write for the integrated writing task. In addition, you will see a mock writing practice test. Then you will see a model response based on that practice test.

http://bettertoeflscores.com/words-toefl-task-2/8915/: This free TOEFL resources link takes you to independent writing practice. First, you will learn how you are graded on this practice test. Second, you will get an idea of how many words you need to write for this task. Near the end of the web page, a model essay helps you understand how you should organize and develop this response.

Free TOEFL Resources: Speaking Assistance

https://onlinetoeflcourse.com/free-toefl-speaking-practice-test-evaluation/: This free TOEFL resource allows you to sign up to complete a free TOEFL speaking practice evaluation. Michael Buckhoff will listen to, evaluate, and score your practice test. In addition, he will provide you with a 6-8 minute audio recording. Finally, his audio comments will focus on your delivery, language-use, and topic development strengths and weaknesses.

http://bettertoeflscores.com/toefl-speaking-score-26/8727/: This article will share the motivational story of Dina. She took the TOEFL iBT six times until she finally reached her score of 26.  Furthermore, this article underscores the difficulties of scoring 26 on the speaking section.

http://bettertoeflscores.com/toefl-speaking-rubrics-analysis/8877/:  This article analyzes the TOEFL iBT rubrics used by human raters. In particular, you will learn what your delivery needs to be like in order to get a perfect score of 4.0.

I hope that you have enjoyed my free TOEFL resources web page. If the time is right for you, consider using my Online TOEFL Course to prepare for the TOEFL iBT.

Good luck!

Michael Buckhoff, mbuckhoff@aol.com

http://onlinetoeflcourse.com