TOEFL Together - Lesson 1

TOEFL Speaking: Student Guide

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TOEFL Together

LESSON 1

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How the Speaking Questions relate to the real world

Introduction

Exam Structure

You will be able to describe the structure and format of the Speaking exam and understand what you have to do

Question Preparation

You will be able to prepare and practice all 4 types of questions and apply the timing process

Analyis

You will be able to analyse and appraise your responses and determine how to improve

Learning Outcomes

Speaking Applications

You will be able to relate the skills needed in TOEFL to a variety of academic and professional situations.

Your Toolkit

At the end of this guide you can access the TOEFL Speaking Toolkit with additional resources to help you prepare.

Tools to help you practice from anywhere

Step by step guide for practice questions and how to use the official AI scored practice sets on mobile

Additional resources: videos, weblinks, extra tips and techniques.

TOEFL Speaking Toolkit

What do you already know?

How much do you know about the Speaking section?

Exam Structure

Section 1

Section 2

Question Practice

Section 3

Evaluate what you know before attending the Speaking Introduction Class.

Quiz

Explore additional resources and curated references

Module 3 Toolkit

Your TOEFL Speaking Guide is a step by step document to help you prepare, practice and gain the confidence for the Speaking Introduction Class and the exam

Introduction

Index

Answer Analysis

Question Preparation & Practice

Exam Overview & Format

Analysis & How to improve

Section 1Exam Structure and Format

45 - 60 minutes

Speaking Structure

Speaking is the 3rd part of the exam.

Section 1: Exam Structure - Speaking

This part lasts 16 minutes in total. You will record yourself speaking into a microphone and it will be timed. You will hear and read the questions on a computer screen. There is no interaction with a live examiner.

In the exam, your speaking will be marked by two raters:1. Human Rater–evaluates content, meaning and language in a holistic manner. 2. Automated Speech Rater evaluates in a more analytical manner and looks for linguistic features.

Types of Questions

There are 2 types of questions:

Which do you prefer?

Question 1

Independent Speaking

It asks for your personal opinion.

1. You are given a statement

For example: Many people prefer to study alone, but group collaboration is growing in popularity.

Q1. Independent Speaking

2. Now choose a side, which do you prefer?

Do you prefer group colloboration?

Do you prefer to study alone?

Independent Speaking & Integrated Speaking

It does not matter which side you choose, but you need to have logical arguments to support your preference.

Pyramid Plan

15 Seconds

After you read the statement, you have 15 seconds to generate and organize your ideas

Draw a pyramid shape

Convenient

Concentrate

Study at any time

Study where you want

Study on task

Focus on your own needs

Study alone

Next, on the next slide, we follow the same pyramid structure while listening to a model answer.

This is how it works

Convenient

Concentrate

Study at any time

Study where you want

Study on task

Focus on your own needs

1. Chose a side

2. Write 2 ideas

3. Write 2 points for each idea

Listen to this model answer

Listen

Answer = 45 seconds

Go to Q1 Practice

Study alone

Types of Questions

There are 3 types of integrated questions:

Question 2, 3, and 4

With Q4 you have 2 activities 1. Listening 2. Speaking

With Q2 you have 3 activities1. Reading 2. Listening3. Speaking

With Q3 you have 3 activities 1. Reading2. Listening 3. Speaking

Integrated Speaking Questions

Read (80-110 words) about a campus-related issue 45 seconds

1. Reading

Listen to comments made on the issue 60 - 80 seconds

2. Listening

3. Speaking

Give a summary of the opinion in the Listening in context of the Reading30 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Integrated Speaking Question 2 - Campus Situation

The model answer below shows you a good level of speaking response

Read (80-110 words) about a campus-related issue 45 seconds

1. Reading

3. Speaking

Integrated Speaking Question 2

When Reading, take notes in a table

What is the change? What are the reasons x 2?

Listen to comments made on the issue 60 - 80 seconds

2. Listening

3. Speaking

Integrated Speaking Question 2

3. Speaking

When Listening, take notes in a table

What is his opinion? What reasons does he give x 2?

3. Speaking

Give a summary of the opinion in the Listening in context of the Reading30 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Integrated Speaking Question 2

When Speaking, use the notes in your table

Listen to the model speaking answer and notice how it links the text in the Reading with the man's opinion in the Listening.

3. Speaking

Give a summary of the opinion in the Listening in context of the Reading30 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Integrated Speaking Question 2 - Structure

When Speaking, follow this structure to give a complete response

1. State the theme of the Reading

The reading states that the college association wants to spend money on purchasing a new sound system for Lincoln Hall.

2. and the 2 reasons ...

This is to encourage more students to attend the films and to increase ticket sales.

3. State the opinion from the Listening in relation to the Reading

The man does not think that this is a good option. His opinion is it's a waste of money

4. and the 2 reasons ...

Firstly, because he doesn't think spending money on the sound system will improve the sound in the old building because the acoustics are so bad. His second reason is he doesn't think the cinema would be a popular choice for students. If there were better things to do on campus they would choose them

Read (80-110 words) from a University textbook 45 seconds

1. Reading

Listen to to a professor giving a lecture for approx 120 seconds on the same subject as the reading material60 - 90 seconds

2. Listening

3. Speaking

Give a summary of the opinion in the Listening in context of the Reading30 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Integrated Speaking Question 3 - Reading & Lecture

The table below are notes from the Reading and the Listening and is used to guide you through the Speaking answer

Read (80-110 words) from a University textbook 45 seconds

1. Reading

3. Speaking

Integrated Speaking Question 3

When Reading, take notes in a table

What is the title? What is the definition of the concept?

Listen to the professor and take notes from the Lecture60 - 80 seconds

2. Listening

3. Speaking

Integrated Speaking Question 3

3. Speaking

When Listening, take notes in a table

Explain the Title/Topic? What is the definition?What is the example?

3. Speaking

Question: Explain flow and how the example used by the professor illustrates the concept.30 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Integrated Speaking Question 3

When Speaking, use the notes in your table

Listen to the model speaking answer and notice how it links the text in the Reading with the professor's opinion in the Listening.

3. Speaking

Question: Explain flow and how the example used by the professor illustrates the concept.30 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Integrated Speaking Question 3 - Structure

When Speaking, follow this structure to give a complete response

1. The introduction phrase:

Flow is a state or feeling of complete and energized focus in an activity -usually one that stretches one’s physical or mental abilities

2. The definition phrase: explain the concept of flow as it was presented in the reading

The professor's friend experienced flow while working on a mathematics puzzle which is a mentally challenging activity

3. Transitioning from the reading to the lecturer:

Since flow is characterized by losing a sense of time, the friend stayed up late or did not stop for other activities such as eating or sleeping

5. Conclusion

This is how the professor explains Flow

Both the Reading and the Lecture discuss the concept of Flow and how it usually happens.

4. Transition phrases for developing points, such as: “also, in addition, moreover, as a result, consequently,”

Listen to the model speaking answer and notice how it links the text in the Reading with the professor's opinion in the Lecture

Listen to an academic lecturer on a specific concept/term90 - 120 seconds

1. Listening

2. Speaking

Summarize the lecture explaining the examples illustrate the subject of the lecture20 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Integrated Speaking Question 4 - Academic Lecture

2. Speaking

Summarize the lecture explaining the examples illustrate the subject of the lecture20 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Integrated Speaking Question 4 - Instructions

In the Listening, a professor introduces a talk on a specific topic. It’s very important that you note down the definition given; this will be right at the beginning of the lecture.

Your notes are essential in Q4.

See the table below for good note taking structure.

On the next slide, you see how to adapt your notes to the listening and examples of notes from the Lecture about Tools.

2. Speaking

Summarize the lecture explaining the examples illustrate the subject of the lecture20 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Integrated Speaking Question 4 - Instructions adapted

Not all lectures will follow the same structure. Here, in this lecture there is 1 overall Topic and then 2 subtopics are needed, for "the narrow definition" and "the broad definition".

So you have to logically adapt your notes in Q4.

Integrated Speaking Question 4 - Structure

When speaking, don’t try and read your notes. If you sound like you are reading, your score will be lower. Instead, pretend you are a teacher explaining this topic to a student.

The professor discusses (topic) which she defines as (definition)

She describes two definitions: narrow & broad.

First, (subtopic one) which is + definition 1 - the professor provides an example of (example one) to illustrate this.

Second, (subtopic two) which is + definition 2 - The professor provides an example of (example 2) to illustrate this.

and that is how the professor describes + reinstate the topic

Use this structure to practice speaking .Repeat until it sounds fluent and natural

Section 2Question Preparation & Practice

60 minutes

Now it is your turn!

Question 1 Preparation & Practice

Use your Pyramid Plan = 15 seconds

Use your phone to record your answer for 45 seconds

Idea 1

Idea 2

Point 1

Point 2

Point 3

Point 4

Ready?

YourPreference

Statement:Some people believe that watching television is a better way to spend time than reading books. Which do you prefer? Why?

Question 1 - Independent Speaking - Timed

Use 15 seconds for the Pyramid Plan

Now record your answer in 45 seconds.

How did you do?

Use your phone to record your answer

Step1. Understand the instructions and then try the Independent Speaking task Step 2. Listen back to your recording on your phone and assess your answer. Did you - follow the pyramid plan? - produce 2 ideas and 4 points in 45 seconds? Don't worry if you can't do it immediately. It takes practice. Later, we will help you improve your answer with tips and techniques but first, you need to practice, practice, practice!

Statement:Some students believe that reading books is better than attending lectures. Others believe attending lectures adds real value to their education. Which do you believe? Why?

Question 1 - Independent Speaking - Timed

Here's another practice example

Now record your answer in 45 seconds.

How did you do?

Use your phone to record your answer

Read (80-110 words) about a campus-related issue 45 seconds

1. Reading

Listen to comments made on the issue 60 - 80 seconds

2. Listening

3. Speaking

Give a summary of the opinion in the Listening in context of the Reading30 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Question 2 Practice

3. Speaking

Give a summary of the opinion in the Listening in context of the Reading30 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Integrated Speaking Question 2 - Timed

Question:The woman expresses her opinion of the university's new policy. State her opinion and explain the reasons she gives for holding that opinion.

In the exam you have 30 seconds to prepare your speaking answer

Then you have 60 seconds to record your speaking answer. Use your phone to record your answer.

Read (80-110 words) from a University textbook45 seconds

1. Reading

Listen to to a professor giving a lecture for approx 120 seconds on the same subject as the reading material60 - 80 seconds

2. Listening

3. Speaking

Question: Using the Professor's example, explain what an establishing shot is and how it is used.30 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Question 3 Practice

3. Speaking

Give a summary of the opinion in the Listening in context of the Reading30 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Integrated Speaking Question 3 - Timed

Question:Using the Professor's example, explain what an establishing shot is and how it is used.

In the exam you have 30 seconds to prepare your speaking answer

Then you have 60 seconds to record your speaking answer. Use your phone to record your answer.

1. Listening

2. Speaking

Question 4 Practice

Listen to part of a lecture in a biology class90 - 120 seconds

Summarize the lecture explaining the examples illustrate the subject of the lecture20 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

2. Speaking

Integrated Speaking Question 4 - Timed

Question:Using points from the lecture, explain how the passion plant and the potato plant defend themselves from insects.

In the exam you have 20 seconds to prepare your speaking answer

Then you have 60 seconds to record your speaking answer. Use your phone to record your answer.

Summarize the lecture explaining the examples illustrate the subject of the lecture20 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Section 3Answer Analysis& How to Improve

60 minutes

Analyse your speech

Using free smartphone apps is a great way to analyse your speech. On Android, download the Speechnotes application. On iOS, use the Dictation app

Speech to Text Apps

These applications will allow you to dictate and transcribe any texts instead of typing them.

As we move forward with your TOEFL Training, there are 4 important speech factors to pay attention to. Analyse your phone recordings for...

1. Speaking Rate: The suggested speaking rate is between 100-150 words a minute. Also, speak clearly so that is easy for others to understand you.

2. Sustained Speech: Use short sentences with linking words to connect 2 sentences. Try to avoid filler words such as “um,” “er,” and “you know.”

Linking Words Linking words are often used to connect 2 sentences. For example: Sales increased in June, therefore, we should increase production. In the example above you can see: a short simple sentence + linking work + a short simple sentence.

3. Pause Frequency: Make small pauses at the end of each of your sentences. Use a lower tone when you get to the end of your sentences. Do not pause when you are in the middle of an idea.

4. Repetitions: Do not repeat words or phrases such as “Good roommates, good roommates are honest.”

Personally, I prefer to study alone. First, I think that studying independently is more convenient than studying with a group. Sometimes, it can be difficult to find a time that all of you are free and when you study alone, you can choose the time that is best for you without having to decide with another person. It is also more convenient because you can study where you want. You do not need to find a place that is suitable for a larger group of people. Secondly, studying alone allows you to concentrate better. When you study with a group, you often start to talk about other subjects and you don’t focus on your studies. Additionally, you can better focus on what YOU need to revise instead of worrying about what your friends’ weaknesses are. That’s why I believe it is better to study alone than with a group.

Question 1: Analysis - Improving Structure

Let's look at the text from the model answer

Personally, I prefer to study alone.

First, I think that studying independently is more convenient than studying with a group.

Idea 1

It is also more convenient because you can study where you want. You do not need to find a place that is suitable for a larger group of people.

Idea 2

Sometimes, it can be difficult to find a time that all of you are free and when you study alone, you can choose the time that is best for you without having to decide with another person.

Secondly, studying alone allows you to concentrate better.

Additionally, you can better focus on what YOU need to revise instead of worrying about what your friends’ weaknesses are. That’s why I believe it is better to study alone than with a group.

When you study with a group, you often start to talk about other subjects and you don’t focus on your studies.

Point 1

Point 2

Point 1

Point 2

YourPreference

Question 1: Analysis - Improving Structure

Let's look at the structural words used

Personally, I prefer to study alone.

First, I think that studying independently is more convenient than studying with a group.

Idea 1

It is also more convenient because you can study where you want. You do not need to find a place that is suitable for a larger group of people.

Idea 2

Sometimes, it can be difficult to find a time that all of you are free and when you study alone, you can choose the time that is best for you without having to decide with another person.

Secondly, studying alone allows you to concentrate better.

Additionally, you can better focus on what YOU need to revise instead of worrying about what your friends’ weaknesses are. That’s why I believe it is better to study alone than with a group.

When you study with a group, you often start to talk about other subjects and you don’t focus on your studies.

Point 1

Point 2

Point 1

Point 2

Personally,

First,

Sometimes,

It is also

Secondly,

When you

Additionally,

YourPreference

Q1: Analysis - Improving Structure - Guide

Practice with these structure words

Idea 1

Idea 2

Point 1

Point 2

Point 1

Point 2

Personally,

First,

Sometimes,

It is also

Secondly,

When you

Additionally,

YourPreference

Read (80-110 words) about a campus-related issue 45 seconds

1. Reading

Listen to comments made on the issue 60 - 80 seconds

2. Listening

3. Speaking

Give a summary of the opinion in the Listening in context of the Reading30 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Question 2 Analysis

Question 2 Recording Analysis

1. First, let's use this example from earlier. See below.

The reading states that the college association wants to spend money on purchasing a new sound system for Lincoln Hall.

This is to encourage more students to attend the films and to increase ticket sales.

The man does not think that this is a good option. His opinion is it's a waste of money

2. Next, use your phone and record yourself speaking the answer below

3. Listen to your recording. Assess your recording for ...- speaking rate- sustained speech- pause frequency - repetitions

See page 39 for definitions of: - speaking rate - sustained speech - pause frequency - repetitions

Question 2 Recording Analysis

4. Now, record yourself again but only using the notes

5. Here are some tips to improve your score

Tip 1 = Be casual!, the exam is testing if you feel comfortable and confident while speaking English, so you should sound as natural as possible.

Tip 2 = Imagine you are a reporter and have to explain this story to people who do not know anything about this topic. Start from the beginning and progress in a smooth and logical manner.

Tip 3 = Don’t read your notes! This is why we advise only writing a few words and phrases so you don’t spend all your time staring down at your paper

Tip 4 = Don’t give your opinion! Remember you are only reporting on what the announcement/letter said and if the student agreed or disagreed and why. In Q2 don't use “ I think,” or “In my opinion,”.

Read (80-110 words) from a University textbook45 seconds

1. Reading

Listen to to a professor giving a lecture for approx 120 seconds on the same subject as the reading material60 - 80 seconds

2. Listening

3. Speaking

Question: Using the Professor's example, explain what an establishing shot is and how it is used.30 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Question 3 Analysis

Question 3 Recording Analysis

1. First, let's use this example from the previous screen. See below.

Film directors use different types of camera shots for specific purposes.

An establishing shot is an image, shown briefly at the beginning of a scene, usually taken from far away, that is used to provide context for the rest of the scene.

One purpose of the establishing shot is to communicate background information to the viewer, such as the setting -- where and when the rest of the scene will occur.

It also establishes the mood or feeling of the scene. Due to the context that the establishing shot provides, the characters and events that are shown next are better understood by the viewer

2. Next, use your phone and record yourself speaking the answer below. You have 80 seconds.

3. Listen to your recording. Assess your recording for ...- speaking rate- sustained speech- pause frequency - repetitions

See page 39 for definitions of: - speaking rate - sustained speech - pause frequency - repetitions

Question 3 Recording Analysis

4. Now, record yourself again but only using your notes

5. Here are some tips to improve your score

Tip 1 = Be casual!, the exam is testing if you feel comfortable and confident while speaking English, so you should sound as natural as possible.

Tip 2 = Imagine you are a reporter and have to explain this story to people who do not know anything about this topic. Start from the beginning and progress in a smooth and logical manner.

Tip 3 = Don’t read your notes! This is why we advise only writing a few words and phrases so you don’t spend all your time staring down at your paper

1. Listening

2. Speaking

Question 4 Analysis

Listen to part of a lecture in a biology class90 - 120 seconds

Summarize the lecture explaining the examples illustrate the subject of the lecture20 seconds to prepare60 seconds to give your answer

Question 4 Recording Analysis