TOEFL Time
What to know about the TOEFL integrated writing task
Some people are terrified by the integrated writing task; most people are scared that they will miss important information mentioned in the lecture. In this section, we have listed three steps that can help you rock the integrated writing section. We have also provided some samples and practices to check your understanding and let you try grading some sample essays at the end.
Step 1: Note-Taking (2-3 minutes)
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Identify the 3 Main Points
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The reading passage will outline the main idea and then three main arguments. Then, the listening will describe three main arguments that oppose the reading.
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Look at the topic sentence
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Look for repeated words or ideas
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Listen for signposting words
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Firstly, Secondly, Finally, Next
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Find What Note-Taking Method Works for You
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Listing
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Venn Diagram
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T-Chart
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Use Abbreviated Notes
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Don’t worry about writing out every word with perfect spelling
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Make notes of key words
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Use symbols if you will remember what they mean
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Step 2: Drafting (12-13 minutes)
There are two methods to organize a compare/contrast essay. This step-by-step guide will show you both ways and describe the preferred method for TOEFL.
Method 1: Block Point
Method 2: Point-By-Point
Steps to creating an outline:
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Refer to your notes. Find matching information between the reading and listening. Decide the three main points in both sections. Information that does not match under each point will help you determine what the contrasting ideas are in listing and t-chart note-taking styles.
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Choose an organization method. The preferred method in TOEFL is point-by-point, but select the method that makes sense and works best for you. Remember, your time is limited so pick the easiest one that you can write quickly.
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Fill in your outline. This should only take you 30-60 seconds, but an outline will help you remember the main points and organization of your essay.
Click here to see an example of notes and a completed outline.
Step 3: Revising (5 minutes)
Although you will probably only have a few minutes to revise your writing, it is an important part of the process.
Because you have such a little amount of time, prioritize the mistakes that you need to correct.
Consider reviewing the rubric below so that you are more familiar with what the graders will be looking for.
It is important to focus on the bigger issues, rather than all the small mechanics of your writing.
1. Make sure you included all of the relevant information in response to the prompt.
2. Read through your response and check for cohesiveness and flow.
3. Check for mechanical mistakes with your language or grammar.
Rubric
Samples
Now we have gone through all the writing steps, let's look at some samples and identify the strengths and weaknesses of each sample. Remember, none of these writings is perfect. Don't attempt to use any memorized sentences or phrases for your independent writing exam.
Score 5
Score 4
Score 3
Score 2
Score 1
Practice
Read the passage and listen to the audio below. Then click here to see the writing prompt and two sample essays to score.
"Research within the past two decades has sought out to examine how apples affect society’s health. One study showed surprising results that apples are an equal substitute to many supplements meant to lower cholesterol and prevent other heart related problems. In a way, apples allow many consumers to save money on annual prescriptions otherwise necessary. Moreover, apples are nutrient dense. They are rich in antioxidant properties and fiber, contain a moderate amount of Vitamin C, and are low in fat, making them an excellent choice for snacking. Because of their low calorie count, some studies have also determined that including more apples in one’s diet may aid in weight loss. Overall, an increase in apple consumption proves to be a factor in improving health."
Click here for an explanation and practice.
Click here for practice.
Read the passage about Teamwork below in 3 minutes.
"Whether you like it or not, you will be asked to complete tasks with a team in different capacities throughout your life. Working with a team has many benefits that you may want to consider the next time you are asked to collaborate. First, with multiple people working together you can help each other and solve problems more easily because of what you each know. Each group member brings different strengths that can benefit the group when one person is struggling. Second, throughout life there will be opportunities to work in a team and so it is a valuable skill to learn how to work well with others, in order to prepare you for the future. Finally, teamwork provides an ideal setting for collaboration to get better ideas from the other group members. So the next time your teacher announces that you will be working in a group, think of all the benefits."
Now listen to a lecture in a Business class. You may only listen once.
Answer the following prompt:
Summarize the points made in the lecture. Be sure to explain how they cast doubt on points made in the reading.
You have 20 minutes to complete this task.
After, you can look at this example of a score 3 essay to compare your answer.
Take this short quiz below to check what you have learned.