TOEFL Writing & Speaking Tutorial

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TOEFL Writing & Speaking Tutorial


TOEFL Writing Question 1 - Integrated Writing – (Read, Listen, Explain)
TOEFL Writing Question 2 - Independent Writing – (Opinion)
Additional Writing Tips

Parts of a Paragraph
Prewriting Paragraphs
Writing Paragraphs
Editing a Paragraph
Definition Paragraphs
Classification Paragraphs
Description Paragraphs
Compare and Contrast Paragraphs
Sequence Paragraphs
Choice Paragraphs
Explanation Paragraphs
Evaluation Paragraphs

Parts of an Essay
Prewriting an Essay
Writing an Essay
Editing an Essay
Kinds of Essays









Question 1




Integrated Writing – (Read, Listen, Explain):


The reading and the lecture will be on an academic subject in one of the following areas.

Life science – Any of several branches of science, such as biology, medicine, anthropology, or ecology, that deal with living organisms and their organization, life processes, and relationships to each other and their environment.

Social science – The study of human society and of individual relationships in and to society, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, economics, political science, and history.

Physical science – Any of the sciences, such as physics, chemistry, astronomy, and geology, that analyze the nature and properties of energy and nonliving matter.

Humanities – Branches of knowledge that investigate human beings, their culture, and their self-expression, including the study of languages and literatures, the arts, history, and philosophy.


If any of these subjects is unfamiliar to you, there are several things you can do to prepare. Read articles in academic journals at the library, download podcasts of lectures, subscribe to a blog on the subject, or buy lecture series.


To begin with, your focus should be on summarizing the main points of the lecture.
 Do not take notes in full sentence form. Use points.
 Expect structure. The main point will come first followed by explanations, examples, and reasons.
 Put things in your own words. Avoid the trap of copying down exact phrases.
 Make sure you've covered the 5W's and How. Do you know who, what, when, where, why, and how? You must mention specific details in your answer.


Your next task is to show how the lecture challenges or supports the reading. Begin by typing out an outline so your essay has a clear, coherent structure. You can fill it in and delete as you write.

Choose your words carefully so that you are answering the exact question that is asked. Just writing generally about the subject will not get you high marks.

Here are some key phrases you can use in your essay.


Challenges the reading


contest, dispute, query, question
doubt, mistrust
object (to), protest
oppose, resist, defy, face


Supports the reading


advocate, back, champion
confirm, bear out, corroborate, substantiate
validate, verify, vindicate
help, boost, support


Use verbs to indicate that you are summarizing:

suggest, say
report, tell
argue, question, ask
conclude





Question 2




Independent Writing – (Opinion):

This essay should express your opinion. You must show that you agree or disagree with a statement. Some phrases you can use are:

Agreement


I have come to the conclusion that A is true because...
In my experience, B is usually true.
If you consider the evidence, it is clear that A is the best choice.



Disagreement


The way I see it, A would be a poor course of action.
A rivals B because...
While I admit that A would be the better choice in some limited situations, B is a better choice overall.



Additional Writing Tips



Creativity and Brainstorming

Perhaps the greatest source of nervousness in the opinion portions of the test is not being able to think of something to say. Improve your brainstorming skills with practice. Explore the different methods until you find the one that works for you.

Are you a linear thinker?
• Create a simple list of the 5Ws and How.
• Word association – write down the main word and then whatever other words come to mind in association with it.

Are you an intuitive thinker? A non-traditional method of generating ideas may work better.
• Sketch pictures that come to mind as you consider the question. Relax and allow your mind to associate new words with those pictures. Write down the first word that comes to mind for each image, symbol, scribble, line or structure. Organize the words into clusters of similar or related ideas.


Be well read

One of the roads to good writing is reading. Read the kind of writing that you would like to produce. Some ideas include:
• Subscribe to a well-written blog.
• Go to the library and read articles about science, economics, psychology or political science.
• Switch between reading different genres. You'll learn new words and new ways of perceiving the world. Try historical novels, mysteries, biographies or science fiction.


Practice writing

Practice makes perfect! You wouldn't go into a sports competition without training, would you? Write often to get used to the process.
• Summarize articles from your favorite magazine.
• Keep a journal or publish a blog about your hobby.
• Write down your opinions about the headlines in the news.


Learn how to edit your own writing.

Develop a strategy for quickly editing your work. You may even memorize this list.
• Have I answered the question?
• Is there a thesis statement?
• Do the topic sentences of each paragraph develop the thesis logically?
• Are the transition words appropriate?
• Does the conclusion summarize my message?


Organization

Every essay should have the following organizational structure:
Introduction
Body (paragraphs or sentences to explain, prove, illustrate, etc.)
Conclusion


Transition words should be chosen carefully so that they are true guideposts for the reader. Do not use "first, second, third" unless you are describing steps in a process or explaining events chronologically!


To indicate that an example or an illustration follows:


chiefly, especially, for instance, in particular, namely, particularly, including, specifically, such as, as an example, in this case


To show how one action is similar to another action:


comparatively, likewise, similar to, moreover, together with


To contrast ideas:


although, however, instead, on the other hand, in contrast, but


To emphasize one point:


above all, chiefly, with attention to, especially, particularly, singularly


To show the structure or organization of the essay:


first, let's begin with, next, now, furthermore, in addition


To summarize or conclude:


all in all, all things considered, briefly, in brief, in conclusion, on the whole, in short, in summary, in the final analysis, in the long run, to sum up, to summarize, finally


Strengthen your writing.

Connect it to a larger issue such as a cultural belief, a current headline catching the nation's attention, or a theoretical question many people face.

Appeal to authority by quoting an expert in the field or relating an anecdote which illustrates how that authority handled the situation.

Avoid redundancy.

Stay on track. Digression is distracting.

Vary basic and complex sentence structures.


Parts of a Paragraph




Topic Sentence


What is the topic sentence?
The topic sentence is the first sentence in a paragraph.

What does it do?
It introduces the main idea of the paragraph.

How do I write one?

Summarize the main idea of your paragraph. Indicate to the reader what your paragraph will be about.

Example:

There are three reasons why Canada is one of the best countries in the world. First, Canada has an excellent health care system. All Canadians have access to medical services at a reasonable price. Second, Canada has a high standard of education. Students are taught by well-trained teachers and are encouraged to continue studying at university. Finally, Canada's cities are clean and efficiently managed. Canadian cities have many parks and lots of space for people to live. As a result, Canada is a desirable place to live.

Supporting Details


What are supporting sentences?
They come after the topic sentence, making up the body of a paragraph.

What do they do?
They give details to develop and support the main idea of the paragraph.

How do I write them?
You should give supporting facts, details, and examples.

Example:


There are three reasons why Canada is one of the best countries in the world. First, Canada has an excellent health care system. All Canadians have access to medical services at a reasonable price. Second, Canada has a high standard of education. Students are taught by well-trained teachers and are encouraged to continue studying at university. Finally, Canada's cities are clean and efficiently managed. Canadian cities have many parks and lots of space for people to live. As a result, Canada is a desirable place to live.

Closing Sentence


What is the closing sentence?
The closing sentence is the last sentence in a paragraph.

What does it do?
It restates the main idea of your paragraph.

How do I write one?
Restate the main idea of the paragraph using different words.

Example:


There are three reasons why Canada is one of the best countries in the world. First, Canada has an excellent health care system. All Canadians have access to medical services at a reasonable price. Second, Canada has a high standard of education. Students are taught by well-trained teachers and are encouraged to continue studying at university. Finally, Canada's cities are clean and efficiently managed. Canadian cities have many parks and lots of space for people to live. As a result, Canada is a desirable place to live.

Prewriting Paragraphs




What is the prewriting stage?

The prewriting stage is when you think carefully and organize your ideas for your paragraph before you begin writing.

Six Prewriting Steps:

1. Think carefully about what you are going to write. Ask yourself: What question am I going to answer in this paragraph or essay? How can I best answer this question? What is the most important part of my answer? How can I make an introductory sentence (or thesis statement) from the most important part of my answer? What facts or ideas can I use to support my introductory sentence? How can I make this paragraph or essay interesting? Do I need more facts on this topic? Where can I find more facts on this topic?

2. Open your notebook (or word processing program on your computer). Write out your answers to the above questions. You do not need to spend a lot of time doing this; just write enough to help you remember why and how you are going to write your paragraph or essay.

3. Collect facts related to your paragraph or essay topic. Look for and write down facts that will help you to answer your question. Timesaving hint: make sure the facts you are writing are related to the exact question you are going to answer in your paragraph or essay.

4. Write down your own ideas. Ask yourself: What else do I want to say about this topic? Why should people be interested in this topic? Why is this topic important?

5. Find the main idea of your paragraph or essay. Choose the most important point you are going to present. If you cannot decide which point is the most important, just choose one point and stick to it throughout your paragraph or essay.

6. Organize your facts and ideas in a way that develops your main idea. Once you have chosen the most important point of your paragraph or essay, you must find the best way to tell your reader about it. Look at the facts you have written. Look at your own ideas on the topic. Decide which facts and ideas will best support the main idea of your paragraph. Once you have chosen the facts and ideas you plan to use, ask yourself which order to put them in the paragraph. Write down your own note set that you can use to guide yourself as you write your paragraph or essay.

Writing Paragraphs




What is the writing stage?

The writing stage is when you turn your ideas into sentences.


Five Writing Steps:

1. Open your notebook and word processor.
2. Write the topic sentence, supporting sentences, and closing sentence.
3. Write clear and simple sentences to express your meaning.
4. Focus on the main idea of your paragraph.
5. Use the dictionary to help you find additional words to express your ideas

Editing Paragraphs




What is the editing stage?

The editing stage is when you check your paragraph for mistakes and correct them.


Grammar and Spelling

1. Check your spelling.
2. Check your grammar.
3. Read your paragraph again.
4. Make sure each sentence has a subject.
5. See if your subjects and verbs agree with each other.
6. Check the verb tenses of each sentence.
7. Make sure that each sentence makes sense.


Style and Organization

1. Make sure your paragraph has a topic sentence.
2. Make sure your supporting sentences focus on the main idea.
3. Make sure you have a closing sentence.
4. Check that all your sentences focus on the main idea.
5. See if your paragraph is interesting.

Classification Paragraphs





When writing a classification paragraph, you group things or ideas into specific categories.

Example: Write a paragraph discussing two types of energy resources.

The following words can help you to write a good classification paragraph:

Helper Phrases Example

is a kind of Coal is a kind of non-renewable resource.
can be divided into Energy resources can be divided into two types.
is a type of Coal is a type of non-renewable resource.
falls under Coal falls under the category of non-renewable resources.
belongs to Coal belongs to the category of non-renewable resources.
is a part of Coal is a part of the category of non-renewable resources.
fits into Coal fits into the category of non-renewable resources.
is grouped with Coal is grouped with non-renewable resources.
is related to Coal is related to other non-renewable resources.
is associated with Coal is associated with other non-renewable resources.




Description Paragraphs





In a description paragraph, you are writing about what a person, place, or thing is like. Sometimes, you may describe where a place is located.

Examples:
Write a paragraph describing what a polar bear looks like.
Describe where Canada's industry is located.

The following words can help you to write a good description paragraph:

Properties Example

size Polar bears are big in size.
color Polar bears are usually white in color.
shape Polar bears have a special shape.
purpose The purpose of the polar bear's fur is to keep it warm.

Measurement Example

length The length of a polar bear's claws is 20 cm.
width The width of a polar bear's head is about 50 cm.
mass/weight Polar bears weigh up to 650 kg.
speed Polar bears can swim at a speed of 40 km per hour.

Analogy Example

is like A polar bear is like other bears in shape.
resembles A polar bear resembles other bears in shape.

Location Example

in Most of Canada's manufacturing is located in Ontario and Quebec.
above The ceiling is above us.
below Most of Ontario is below Hudson Bay.
beside Quebec is located beside Ontario.
near Many companies are located near Toronto.
north/south/east/west Ontario is west of Quebec.


Compare and Contrast Paragraphs





In a compare and contrast paragraph, you write about the similarities and differences between two or more people, places, things, or ideas.

Example:
Write a paragraph comparing the weather in Vancouver and Halifax.

The following words can help you to write a good compare and contrast paragraph:

Similarities Example

is similar to Spring weather in Vancouver is similar to spring weather in Halifax.
both Both Vancouver and Halifax have rain in the spring.
also Halifax also has a rainy spring season.
too Halifax has a rainy spring season, too.
as well As well, Halifax has rainy spring season.

Differences Example

on the other hand On the other hand, winter is much colder in Halifax.
however However, winter is much colder in Halifax.
but Vancouver has a mild winter, but Halifax has a cold one.
in contrast to In contrast to Vancouver, Halifax has a cold winter.
differs from Halifax differs from Vancouver by having a cold winter.
while While Vancouver has a mild winter, Halifax has a cold winter.
unlike Unlike Halifax, Vancouver doesn't get much snow.




Sequence Paragraphs





In a sequencing paragraph, you are writing to describe a series of events or a process in some sort of order. Usually, this order is based on time.

Example:
Write a paragraph outlining how a person becomes the Prime Minister.

The following words can help you to write a good sequence paragraph:

Order Example

first, second, third, etc. First, you need to become a leader of a political party.
Second, you need to win a seat in the House of Commons.
Third, your party must have a majority of seats.
both Both Vancouver and Halifax have rain in the spring.
in the beginning In the beginning, you need to become a leader of a political party.
before Before becoming the prime minister, you need to become the leader of a political party.
then Then, you must win a seat in the House of Commons.
after After winning a seat in the House of Commons, you must make sure you have a majority of seats.
finally Finally, after all these steps, you can call yourself the Prime Minister.
at last At last, you can call yourself the Prime Minister.
subsequently Subsequently, you must make sure you have a majority of seats in the House of Commons.

Time Example

recently She was recently elected Prime Minister.
previously She is the new Prime Minister. Previously, she worked as a lawyer in Toronto.
afterwards She won the party leadership last year. Afterwards, she won the election.
when When she won the party leadership, she was still working as a lawyer.
after After winning a seat in the House of Commons, you must make sure you have a majority of seats.


Choice Paragraphs





In a paragraph where you have to make a choice, you need to choose which object, idea, or action that you prefer. Often, you will need to give your opinion on a choice of actions or events.

Example:

Write a paragraph stating whether you would prefer to play hockey or lacrosse.

The following words can help you to write a good choice paragraph:

Point of View Example

in my opinion In my opinion, hockey is more fun than lacrosse.
belief My belief is that hockey is more fun than lacrosse.
idea My idea is that hockey is more fun than lacrosse.
understanding My understanding is that hockey is more fun than lacrosse.
I think that I think that I would prefer to play hockey and not lacrosse.
I consider I consider hockey to be more exciting than lacrosse.
I believe I believe hockey is more exciting than lacrosse.
it seems to me It seems to me that hockey is more exciting than lacrosse.
I prefer I prefer hockey over lacrosse.

Personal Opinion Example

like/dislike I like the sport of hockey because it is fast and exciting.
hope I hope that I can play hockey in the future.
feel I feel that hockey is my favorite sport.


Explanation Paragraphs





In an explanation paragraph, you need to explain how or why something happens. Very often in social studies class, you will be asked to explore causes and effects of certain events.

Example:

Write a paragraph explaining why so many Europeans moved to Canada during the nineteenth century.

The following words can help you to write a good explanation paragraph:

Cause Example

because People moved to Canada from Europe during the nineteenth century because they had poor living conditions in Europe.
since Since living conditions in Europe were terrible, many people moved to Canada.
as a result of People moved to Canada from Europe as a result of poor living conditions in Europe.
is/was due to The large influx of people to Canada was due to economic pressures in Europe.

Effect Example

therefore Living conditions in Europe were terrible. Therefore, many people moved to Canada for a better life.
thus Living conditions in Europe were terrible. Thus, many people moved to Canada for a better life.
consequently Living conditions were terrible in Europe. Consequently, many people moved to Canada.
hence Living conditions were terrible in Europe. Hence, many people moved to Canada.
it follows that Living conditions were terrible in Europe. It follows that many people moved to Canada.
if... then If living conditions were better in Europe, then fewer people would have moved to Canada.


Evaluation Paragraphs





In an evaluation paragraph, you make judgments about people, ideas, and possible actions. You need to make your evaluation based on certain criteria that you develop. In the paragraph, you will state your evaluation or recommendation and then support it by referring to your criteria.

Example:

Write a paragraph evaluating whether pesticides should be used on farms.

The following words can help you to write a good evaluation paragraph:

Criteria for Evaluation Example

good/bad The use of pesticides such as DDT is bad for the environment.
correct / incorrect The belief that pesticides must be used is incorrect.
moral / immoral The use of pesticides to control pests is immoral because it harms the environment.
right / wrong It is wrong to use pesticides because they harm the environment.
important / trivial The issue of pesticides is an important one because it affects the environment.

Recommendation Example

suggest I suggest that pesticides should not be used to control pests.
recommend I recommend that pesticides should not be used because they are harmful to the environment.
advise I would advise farmers not to use pesticides if possible.
argue I would argue that pesticides should not be used because they harm the environment.





Parts of an Essay




Introduction Paragraph


What is an introduction paragraph?
The introduction paragraph is the first paragraph of your essay.

What does it do?
It introduces the main idea of your essay. A good opening paragraph captures the interest of your reader and tells why your topic is important.

How do I write one?

1. Write the thesis statement. The main idea of the essay is stated in a single sentence called the thesis statement. You must limit your entire essay to the topic you have introduced in your thesis statement.

2. Provide some background information about your topic. You can use interesting facts, quotations, or definitions of important terms you will use later in the essay.

Example:

Hockey has been a part of life in Canada for over 120 years. It has evolved into an extremely popular sport watched and played by millions of Canadians. The game has gone through several changes since hockey was first played in Canada.

Supporting Paragraphs

What are supporting paragraphs?
Supporting paragraphs make up the main body of your essay.

What do they do?
They develop the main idea of your essay.

How do I write them?

1. List the points that develop the main idea of your essay.
2. Place each supporting point in its own paragraph.
3. Develop each supporting point with facts, details, and examples.

To connect your supporting paragraphs, you should use special transition words. Transition words link your paragraphs together and make your essay easier to read. Use them at the beginning and end of your paragraphs.

Examples of transition words that can help you to link your paragraphs together:


For listing different points
• First
• Second
• Third

For counter examples
• However
• Even though
• On the other hand
• Nevertheless

For additional ideas
• Another
• In addition to
• Related to
• Furthermore
• Also

To show cause and effect
• Therefore
• Thus
• As a result of
• Consequently

Like all good paragraphs, each supporting paragraph should have a topic sentence, supporting sentences, and a summary sentence.

Summary Paragraph

What is a summary paragraph?
The summary paragraph comes at the end of your essay after you have finished developing your ideas. The summary paragraph is often called a "conclusion."

What does it do?
It summarizes or restates the main idea of the essay. You want to leave the reader with a sense that your essay is complete.

How do I write one?

1. Restate the strongest points of your essay that support your main idea.
2. Conclude your essay by restating the main idea in different words.
3. Give your personal opinion or suggest a plan for action.

Example:

Overall, the changes that occurred in hockey have helped to improve the game. Hockey is faster and more exciting as a result of changes in the past 120 years. For these reasons, modern hockey is a better game than hockey in the 1890s.

Prewriting an Essay




What is the prewriting stage?

The prewriting stage is when you prepare your ideas for your essay before you begin writing. You will find it easier to write your essay if you build an outline first, especially when you are writing longer assignments.

Six Prewriting Steps:

1. Think carefully about what you are going to write. Ask yourself: What question am I going to answer in this paragraph or essay? How can I best answer this question? What is the most important part of my answer? How can I make an introductory sentence (or thesis statement) from the most important part of my answer? What facts or ideas can I use to support my introductory sentence? How can I make this paragraph or essay interesting? Do I need more facts on this topic? Where can I find more facts on this topic?

2. Open your notebook (or word processing program on your computer). Write out your answers to the above questions. You do not need to spend a lot of time doing this; just write enough to help you remember why and how you are going to write your paragraph or essay.

3. Collect facts related to your paragraph or essay topic. Look for and write down facts that will help you to answer your question. Timesaving hint: make sure the facts you are writing are related to the exact question you are going to answer in your paragraph or essay.

4. Write down your own ideas. Ask yourself: What else do I want to say about this topic? Why should people be interested in this topic? Why is this topic important?

5. Find the main idea of your paragraph or essay. Choose the most important point you are going to present. If you cannot decide which point is the most important, just choose one point and stick to it throughout your paragraph or essay.

6. Organize your facts and ideas in a way that develops your main idea. Once you have chosen the most important point of your paragraph or essay, you must find the best way to tell your reader about it. Look at the facts you have written. Look at your own ideas on the topic. Decide which facts and ideas will best support the main idea of your essay. Once you have chosen the facts and ideas you plan to use, ask yourself which order to put them in the essay. Write down your own note set that you can use to guide yourself as you write your essay.

Writing an Essay




What is the writing stage?

The writing stage is when you turn your ideas into sentences.


Five Writing Steps:

1. For the introduction, write the thesis statement and give some background information.
2. Develop each supporting paragraph and make sure to follow the correct paragraph format.
3. Write clear and simple sentences to express your meaning.
4. Focus on the main idea of your essay.
5. Use a dictionary to help you find additional words to express your meaning.



Editing an Essay




What is the editing stage?

The editing stage is when you check your essay for mistakes and correct them.


Grammar and Spelling

1. Check your spelling.
2. Check your grammar.
3. Read your essay again.
4. Make sure each sentence has a subject.
5. Make sure your subjects and verbs agree with each other.
6. Check the verb tenses of each sentence.
7. Make sure that each sentence makes sense.

Style and Organization

1. Make sure your essay has an introduction, supporting paragraphs, and a summary paragraph.
2. Check that you have a thesis statement that identifies the main idea of the essay.
3. Check that all your paragraphs follow the proper paragraph format.
4. See if your essay is interesting.

Kinds of Essays




Definition Essay


When you are writing a definition essay, you take a term or an idea and write about what it is. Often, definitions are combined with classification or other forms of organization in the essay. You need to give a careful definition of the key term before going on to discuss different types or examples.

Example question: Write an essay defining energy resources and discuss the different types.

Introduction: Define the key term energy resources.

Supporting paragraphs: 1. Define one type of energy resources: renewable resources.

2. Define another type of energy resources: non-renewable resources.

Summary paragraph: Summarize energy resources.

Classification Essay


In a classification essay, you separate things or ideas into specific categories and discuss each of them. You organize the essay by defining each classification and by giving examples of each type.

Example question: Write an essay discussing the three types of government in Canada.

Introduction: Give background information about government in Canada.

Supporting paragraphs: 1. Define and describe federal government.

2. Define and describe provincial governments.

3. Define and describe municipal governments.

Summary paragraph: Summarize government in Canada.


Description Essay


In a description essay, you write about what a person, place, or thing is like. You organize the essay by describing different parts or aspects of the main subject.

Example question: Write an essay describing the polar bear.

Introduction: Introduce what a polar bear is.

Supporting paragraphs: 1. Describe where the polar bear lives.

2. Describe the body of the polar bear.


3. Describe what the polar eats.

Summary paragraph: Summarize what a polar bear is.


Compare and Contrast Essay


In a compare and contrast essay, you write about the similarities and differences between two or more people, places, or things. You can organize the essay by writing about one subject first and then comparing it with the second subject. A more effective way is to organize the essay by comparing each subject by category.

Example question: Write an essay comparing the weather in Vancouver and Halifax.

Introduction: Introduce weather in the cities of Vancouver and Halifax.

Supporting paragraphs: 1. Compare weather in spring and summer for both cities. State how they are similar or different.

2. Compare weather in fall and winter for both cities. State how they are similar or different.

Summary paragraph: Summarize the similarities and differences.


Sequence Essay


In a sequence essay, you are writing to describe a series of events or a process in some sort of order. Usually, this order is based on time. You organize the essay by writing about each step of the process in the order it occurred.

Example question: Write an essay outlining the stages of the salmon life cycle.

Introduction: Describe what a salmon is like.

Supporting paragraphs: 1. Describe young salmon.

2. Describe adult salmon.

3. Describe what salmon do before they die.

Summary paragraph: Summarize the main steps of the salmon life cycle.


Choice Essay


In a choice essay, you need to choose which object, idea, or action that you prefer. You organize the essay by describing each option and then giving your opinion.

Example question: Write an essay choosing between hockey in the 1890s and hockey today.

Introduction: Introduce the game of hockey.

Supporting paragraphs: 1. Describe hockey in the 1890s.

2. Describe hockey today.

3. State which form of hockey you prefer and why.

Summary paragraph: Summarize the game of hockey.


Explanation Essay


In an explanation essay, you explain how or why something happens or has happened. You need to explain different causes and effects. You should organize the essay by explaining each individual cause or effect.

Example question: Write an essay explaining why so many Europeans moved to Canada during the early nineteenth century.

Introduction: Give background information on European immigration during this time.

Supporting paragraphs: 1. Explain first reason: poor economy in Europe.

2. Explain second reason: better living conditions in Canada.

Summary paragraph: Summarize main reasons.


Evaluation Essay


In an evaluation essay, you make judgments about people, ideas, and possible actions. You make your evaluation based on certain criteria that you develop. Organize the essay by discussing the criteria you used to make your judgment.

Example question: Write an essay evaluating the importance of the House of Commons.

Introduction: Give your judgment on whether the House of Commons is important.

Supporting paragraphs: 1. Explain first criteria: meeting place for government.

2. Explain second criteria: represent Canadians.

3. Explain third criteria: make laws for Canada.

Summary paragraph: Conclude with an overall judgment about the House of Commons.



TOEFL Speaking Tutorial





The TOEFL Speaking Tutorial is for students who plan to take the TOEFL iBT test, and want to raise their scores in the TOEFL iBT speaking section.

The TOEFL Speaking Tutorial is designed to help you improve your speaking skills. You will find valuable tips on how to approach all six types of TOEFL speaking questions. In addition, the guide contains additional lessons to improve your overall English speaking skills as you prepare for the TOEFL test.

Out of the 4 areas of the TOEFL test – reading, listening, speaking, writing – that you will be tested on, many students have the most problems with the speaking and writing questions. It's not surprising. Speaking well in English requires many skills like good pronunciation, intonation and vocabulary. With a bit of extra practice using our online TOEFL course, you will be passing the TOEFL test in no time!



TOEFL Speaking Question 1 - Independent Speaking (Describe, Opinion)
TOEFL Speaking Question 2 - Independent Speaking (Choose, Opinion)
TOEFL Speaking Question 3 - Integrated Speaking – Campus Related (Read, Listen, Explain)
TOEFL Speaking Question 4 - Integrated Speaking – Academic Subject (Read, Listen, Explain)
TOEFL Speaking Question 5 - Integrated Speaking – Campus Related (Listen, Opinion)
TOEFL Speaking Question 6 - Integrated Speaking – Academic Subject (Listen, Explain)
Additional Speaking Tips



Question 1




Independent Speaking (Describe, Opinion):


First, you will be asked to describe a place, event, person or activity from your personal experience.

Recall some of the most important and influential events and people of your life. Write out a detailed descriptive paragraph about each of them. Use words that convey a lot of information. The listener should be able to see, feel, hear, smell and taste your experience. For example, instead of saying "I went to boarding school for 3 years" you could say "I patiently endured that outdated boarding school for three wretched years". The second sentence helps the reader imagine what your experience was like.

Use active, punchy, descriptive verbs:
• walk – march, trudge, dawdle, skip, limp, swagger, shuffle
• love – cherish, value, admire, respect, esteem, fall for, enjoy
• teach – mentor, prepare, guide, instill, enlighten, inform, introduce


Try using adverbs to dress up plain verbs:
I looked up at her expectantly every time she called my name in class.
She walked heavily towards me with tears in her eyes.
He waved his arms crazily for me to stop but I ignored him.


Choose adjectives that convey meaning about what you are describing.
• good – exemplary, reputable, delectable, exhilarating, luscious, amusing, agreeable
• interesting – engaging, fascinating, intriguing, provocative, odd, astounding, striking
• important – meaningful, momentous, decisive, fateful, exceptional, crucial, eminent


Next you must give reasons why it is important to you, or how it has influenced you, or why you enjoyed it. Again, use highly descriptive words that explain your point of view in a few short phrases. Choose examples that illustrate how an event made you feel, or why a person continues to influence your decisions, or the ways that a place informed your early life. Make sure you have included enough information so that the listener can understand your point of view easily.


Question 2




Independent Speaking (Choose, Opinion):


You will be presented with two possible actions, situations or opinions. You must choose the one you think is preferable or more justified.

Make your choice very clear. Use phrases such as
In my opinion...
It's clear to me that the best action to take is...
I believe that...
After considering the options, I conclude that...
I agree with...


There is no right or wrong answer, but there are only three ways to answer this question.
1. I choose action, situation or opinion A because...
2. I choose action, situation or opinion B because...
3. I think A would work in certain circumstances, and B would work in certain circumstances, because...


Now that you've made your choice clear, give reasons for it.
Support your opinion with examples from your personal experience. Give detailed information so the listener can easily understand why you have chosen to include this particular example.

Give reasons or justifications for your opinion. Imagine you are debating this point with an opponent and you must persuade them that you are right. In this part, simple words that get right to the point work well. Here are some examples of wordiness to avoid and ways to simplify them.

• quite elegant – splendid
• extremely upset – irate
• past history – history
• personal opinion – opinion
• due to the fact that – because
• in the event that – if
• come to the conclusion that – conclude

Question 3




Integrated Speaking – Campus Related (Read, Listen, Explain):

First you will read a campus related article, bulletin or letter which presents two reasons for or against a proposal.
• Identify exactly what the proposal is. If you don't have the facts straight you won't be able to speak about it.
• Identify if the reading contains the reasons for or the reasons against the proposal.


Next you will listen to one or two speakers discussing the proposal with strong opinions for or against the proposal.

Key words to listen for include:
FOR "That absolutely makes sense to me."
FOR "That sounds good."
FOR "I totally agree."

AGAINST "That doesn't sound fair."
AGAINST "I don't like that at all."
AGAINST "It seems kind of strict, don't you think?"


Finally you will be asked a question about what you have read and heard. You must explain the situation and make a connection between the reading and the listening sections. You should NOT give your own opinion. Be sure to use simple, clear sentences that explain what the proposal is before you start talking about what the speakers said.

Question 4




Integrated Speaking – Academic Subject (Read, Listen, Explain):

The reading will introduce some general concepts from one of the following academic subjects:
Life science – Any of several branches of science, such as biology, medicine, anthropology, or ecology, that deal with living organisms and their organization, life processes, and relationships to each other and their environment.

Social science – The study of human society and of individual relationships in and to society, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, economics, political science, and history.

Physical science – Any of the sciences, such as physics, chemistry, astronomy, and geology, which analyze the nature and properties of energy and nonliving matter.

Humanities – Branches of knowledge that investigate human beings, their culture, and their self-expression, including the study of languages and literatures, the arts, history, and philosophy.


The lecture will go into more specific detail with examples, counter examples or an application of the concept.

Key phrases to listen for include:
"I'd like to talk now about what studies have shown to be some of the limitations..."
"What this means is..."
"Think about the application of..."
"Case studies have proven that..."


Now you must use the lecture material to explain the reading material. Don't just repeat the exact phrases you read and heard. Show you understand by putting it into your own words.


Question 5




Integrated Speaking – Campus Related (Listen, Opinion):


You will hear two people discussing a campus related problem and two possible solutions.

• Identify exactly what the problem is. Listen for details that you can use in your response.
• Identify the two solutions. They may not be presented as opposites, but will likely be presented as a poor way of approaching the problem and a preferred or improved way.

Key phrases that indicate a speaker's opinion include:
"It's really a good idea to do that."
"Yes, I think we should..."
"Let's get started on that..."
"All you have to do is..."
"You might really enjoy..."


Now you must give your own opinion on that same problem.
• You can agree wholeheartedly with one of the speakers, disagree completely with one of the speakers, or present reasons why you think either solution would work.
• After you have summarized the problem and given your opinion, support it with reasons from your personal experience or the listening material.


Question 6




Integrated Speaking – Academic Subject (Listen, Explain):


The lecture will be about an academic subject (as in question four). In this case, the professor will define a concept or introduce a phenomenon and then give some examples that illustrate key aspects or perspectives related to it.

Certain key words and phrases act as guideposts to help you understand the different parts of the lecture.

Definition or introduction
known as
is related in meaning to
is seen to be
as you can tell from the name
X is...

Examples
it is common to find
it's possible that you will see
there have been documented cases of
it was this kind of behavior that allowed X to succeed in...


Now imagine you are explaining the main concept or issue to someone who hasn't heard the lecture. Do not give your opinion or repeat exact phrases from the lecture. Use the examples and illustrations you heard, but put them in your own words.
ORIGINAL:
Mercantilism was an economic policy of nations based on developing international business.

PARAPHRASE IN YOUR OWN WORDS:
Countries who did business outside of their local region adopted mercantilism.



Additional Speaking Tips



Delivery

Practice for the speaking part of the test by recording your response. Listen to the recording and identify problem areas.
• Is your voice loud enough? Does your voice go too quiet at the end of phrases? Make sure you maintain a loud enough tone.
• Are your words clearly articulated? Do you mumble? Speak clearly.
• Do you speak too quickly when you are nervous? Pace yourself. Take a deep breath just before beginning to speak. Pause for a moment between sentences.
• Do fillers distract from your message? Fillers are words such as "um", "okay", "you know", "like", "so", and "well". Your speech should be free of these fillers and fluid.
• Do you repeat yourself? Say it once with confidence and then move on to the next point.
• Are your intonation patterns appropriate? Listen to native speakers in online podcasts, news show commentators on official news sites, or other sources. Identify how the speaker's voice sounds when delivering the main point of the message as well as the supporting points. Practice speaking in a similar way.
• Do you pronounce words correctly? Have a native speaker test your pronunciation of the reading materials in the speaking section, since you will have to use some of the academic or campus related vocabulary in your response.

If you need to reduce your accent, please check out our accent reduction course.


Language use

The development of a vocabulary adequate for the speaking portion of the TOEFL test will come as you prepare for the other parts of the test. Remember that the TOEFL is a test of your integrated skills.


Topic Development

Outline your response in much the same way you would a written response. You only have 15 to 30 seconds to prepare, so keep it to single words that will keep you on track as you speak.

Don't fall into the trap of thinking that you don't have time for an outline. Think of it as wearing shoes to run in a race. It gives you the foundation you'll need to answer well.

Source: www.testden.com