TOEFl Writing Section

TOEFL Test - Writing Section

What is a good written response on the TOEFL? The essay should effectively address a topic. The response should be well-organized and well-developed using relevant explanations and detailed support. Furthermore, it should also display unity, progression, and coherence. If you want to achieve a high writing score, make sure that you demonstrate syntactic variety and appropriate word choice with minor grammatical errors.

TOEFL Writing Purposes

  1. Information Processing – You need to be able to synthesize and summarize what you have read in your textbooks and heard in and outside of the class.
  2. Viewpoints Formation – You need to form your own opinion in response to the information you have processed.
  3. Delivery – Your essay should have a clear main idea and a good structure with well-developed ideas supported by coherent evidence. Follow the conventions of spelling, punctuation, and layout.
  4. Language Use – Your essay should demonstrate effective use of grammar and vocabulary.
  5. Topic Development – Your essay should have the proper length, tone and conclusion. A clear progression of ideas with effective linking words (transitional phrases) is also necessary for a high score.

Writing Section Format

  Length of Task: 1 integrated task – Read/Listen/Write (20 minutes)  
    (reading time: 3 min; listening time: 2 min; writing: 15 min)  
    1 independent task (30 minutes)  
  Number of Tasks: 2  
  Questions: 2  
  Total Time: 50 minutes  
  When Questions will appear: On the same screen above the reading material or just on the left of the screen without reading material  
  Screen/Test Details: a) Test takers may take notes on the reading passage.  
    b) Responses are typed on the computer and sent to ETS’ Online Score Network.  

Question Types by Format and Content (Source: ETS)

Task 1: Integrated Writing Task
Read/Listen/Write

  • Test takers read a short text of about 230–300 words (3 minutes’ reading time) on an academic topic.
  • The reading passage then goes away during the lecture that follows; it reappears when it is time for the test takers to begin writing so they can refer to it as they are working.
  • Test takers listen to a speaker discussing the same topic from a different perspective. The listening passage is about 230–300 words long (or about 2 minutes’ listening time).
  • The listening passage provides additional information that relates to points made in the reading passage; test takers may take notes on the listening passage.
  • Test takers are asked to write a summary in connected English prose of important points made in the listening passage and explain how these relate to the points made in the reading passage.
  • Suggested response length is 150–225 words; however, there is no penalty for writing more, as long as it is in response to the task presented.

Task 2: Independent Writing

  • Test takers are asked to write an essay that states, explains, and supports their opinion on an issue.
  • Test takers need to develop support for their opinions or choices, rather than simply listing personal preferences or choices.
  • Typical essay questions begin with statements such as:
  • Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Use reasons and specific details to support your answer.
  • Some people believe X. Other people believe Y. Which of these two positions do you prefer/agree with? Give reasons and specific details.
  • An effective essay will usually contain a minimum of 300 words; however, test takers may write more if they wish.