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TOEFL Speaking Templates for All Speaking Tasks

TOEFL iBT® Speaking Templates for All Speaking Tasks

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Having a clear understanding of the TOEFL iBT® Speaking templates for all Speaking tasks is crucial to score well on the section. TOEFL Speaking contains four different tasks that should be approached differently.

In this guide, we will learn about the TOEFL Speaking format 2024, effective templates for every TOEFL Speaking task, and also break down the structure of responses for each type along with examples to help you score better in the TOEFL speaking test. 

TOEFL Speaking Format in 2024

Before we check out the speaking templates, let's review the current TOEFL Speaking format:

Task

Type

Preparation Time

Speaking Time

Task 1

Independent

15 seconds

45 seconds

Task 2

Integrated (Read/Listen/Speak)

30 seconds

60 seconds

Task 3

Integrated (Read/Listen/Speak)

30 seconds

60 seconds

Task 4

Integrated (Listen/Speak)

20 seconds

60 seconds

TOEFL Speaking Template for Independent Speaking Task 1 

Here is a template for TOEFL Independent Speaking Task 1 along with an example: 

Section

Time Allocation

Introduction

(5-7 seconds)

Main Point 1 + Example

(15-20 seconds)

Main Point 2 + Example

(15-20 seconds)

Brief Conclusion 

(3-5 seconds)

Example for Independent Speaking Task 1: 

'In my opinion, [state your position]. There are two main reasons for this.

Firstly, [state first reason]. For example, [provide a brief, specific example].

Secondly, [state second reason]. To illustrate, [give another brief, specific example].

Therefore, [restate your position briefly].'

Example Response (Topic: Is it better to travel solo or in a group?):

In my opinion, solo travel is best. I hold this opinion for two principal reasons.

Firstly, solo travel gives you confidence. For example, on my first solo trip to Himachal Pradesh, I took many risks, became more extroverted, asked for directions from strangers, and gained a lot of self-confidence.

Secondly, solo travel allows you to make lots of friends. To illustrate, during my solo backpacking trip in Himachal, I was much more at ease starting conversations with fellow travelers or locals. I was approachable and open to new relations; meaningful interactions and friendships could grow from these experiences.

Therefore, I believe solo travel provides both personal growth and rich social experiences.

TOEFL Speaking Template for Integrated Speaking Task 2 (Reading + Listening)

Mentioned below is a template for the TOEFL Integrated Speaking Task 2 (reading + listening) along with an example: 

Section

Time Allocation

Summarize the reading passage

15-20 seconds

Present the speaker's opinion

5-7 seconds

Explain the first reason/example

15-20 seconds

Explain the second reason/example

15-20 seconds

Example for Integrated Speaking (Reading + Listening)

'The reading passage discusses [summarize the main point of reading]. However, the student in the conversation [agrees/disagrees] with this for two reasons.

Firstly, the student mentions [first point]. For instance, [provide example or explanation].

Secondly, the student points out [second point]. Specifically, [give another example or explanation].'

TOEFL Speaking Template for Integrated Speaking Task 3 (Reading + Lecture)

Check out a template for TOEFL Integrated Speaking Task 3 along with an example: 

Section

Time Allocation

Define the concept from the reading

10-15 seconds

Introduce the example from the lecture

5-7 seconds

Explain the first aspect of the example

15-20 seconds

Explain the second aspect of the example

15-20 seconds

Example for Integrated Speaking (Reading + Lecture)

'The reading defines [concept] as [brief definition]. The professor illustrates this concept with an example.

The example involves [briefly introduce the example].

First, the professor explains that [first aspect of the example]. This demonstrates [how it relates to the concept].

Additionally, the professor points out that [second aspect of the example]. This further illustrates [how it relates to the concept].'

TOEFL Speaking Template for Integrated Speaking Task 4 (Lecture Only)

Here is a template for the TOEFL Integrated Speaking Task 4 along with an example: 

Section

Time Allocation

Introduce the main topic of the lecture 

5-7 seconds

Present the first main point 

20-25 seconds

Present the second main point

20-25 seconds

Brief conclusion

if time allows, 3-5 seconds

Example for TOEFL Integrated Speaking (Lecture Only)

'The lecture discusses [main topic]. The professor provides two main points about this.

Firstly, [state first main point]. For example, [provide specific details or example given].

Secondly, [state second main point]. The professor illustrates this by [give another specific example or explanation].

[If time allows] These points demonstrate [brief concluding statement about the topic].'

Tips for Using TOEFL Speaking Templates Effectively

Here are some tips by experts to use the speaking templates effectively: 

1. Practice Regularly: Use the templates frequently to become familiar with them.

2. Customize: Make the templates your own and tailor them to how you speak, and to what is being asked.

3. Time Yourself: Make sure you are hitting the right pacing for each section with a stopwatch.

4. Focus on Transitions: Smooth transitions between parts of your response are essential in the requirement of coherence.

5. Use Natural Language: Not too robotic, but make it personable with your personality, all within the structure of a template.

6. Listen/Read Actively: Take brief notes of all the key points to incorporate into your template for integrated tasks.

Practice applying these TOEFL Speaking templates regularly, adapting them to various topics and your personal speaking style. With consistent use, you'll develop the skills needed to approach the TOEFL Speaking section with confidence.

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