Types of Tasks in TOEFL iBT® Writing Section

There are two types of tasks in the TOEFL Writing Section: the Integrated Writing Task and the Academic Discussion Writing Task. With a duration of around 29 minutes, the TOEFL Writing section, a critical component of the TOEFL exam, is designed to evaluate your ability to communicate effectively in written English within an academic context. 

Explore the specifics of each task, and read on to learn everything you need to know about the types of tasks in the TOEFL iBT® Writing section and how to master them!

TOEFL Integrated Writing Task

The TOEFL Integrated Writing Task requires you to combine information from a reading passage and a lecture. This task tests your ability to comprehend information from both written and spoken sources.

Structure of Integrated Task

Understanding the structure of the Integrated Writing Task is crucial for effective preparation. Here, we break down the components and what is expected in your response.

1. You will have 3 minutes to read a passage on an academic topic. The passage usually presents a point of view or argument.
2. Then, you will listen to a lecture that discusses the same topic but presents a different perspective or counters the information in the reading passage.
3. You will then have 20 minutes to write an essay that summarises the main points of the lecture and explains how they relate to the reading passage. Your essay should highlight the points of agreement or disagreement between the two sources.

Sample Question

To help you familiarise yourself with the Integrated Writing Task, here's a sample question that replicates the format and content you will encounter on the test.

Reading Passage: The urbanisation of the American landscape had several significant effects on the country's development. With the growth of cities, new economic opportunities emerged, leading to increased job availability and improved living standards for many. However, this rapid urban growth also brought about various social and environmental challenges, including overcrowded living conditions, pollution, and the strain on public services.

Lecture: The lecturer argues that while urbanisation did bring about economic benefits, it also led to significant social disparities. For instance, while some individuals benefited from new job opportunities, others were left behind, particularly those in rural areas who struggled to adapt to the changing economic landscape. Additionally, the environmental impacts of urbanisation were more severe than initially anticipated, contributing to long-term issues such as climate change and loss of biodiversity.

Writing Task: Summarise the points made in the lecture, being sure to explain how they cast doubt on the points made in the reading passage.

Tips for Success

Excelling in the Integrated Writing Task requires specific strategies and techniques. Follow these tips to enhance your performance.

• Take detailed notes while reading the passage and listening to the lecture.
• Focus on identifying the main points and supporting details in both sources.
• Clearly organise your essay, ensuring that each paragraph addresses a specific point.
• Use paraphrasing and summarising techniques to convey the information accurately.
• Avoid inserting your own opinion; stick to summarising the provided information.

TOEFL Academic Discussion Task

The TOEFL Academic Discussion Task requires you to participate in a simulated online discussion on an academic topic. This task tests your ability to articulate your opinion, support your arguments, and engage with other perspectives in a written format.

Structure of Writing Academic Discussion Task

The Academic Discussion Task involves participating in an online discussion format in a class. Let's explore the key elements of this task and how to approach it.

1. Question: You will be given a prompt that presents a scenario or question related to an academic subject. This prompt is designed to elicit your opinion and foster discussion.
2. Writing Task: You will have 10 minutes to write a response in which you express your viewpoint, provide supporting arguments, and interact with the perspectives provided by fictional classmates in the discussion. Your response should be well-organised and demonstrate critical thinking.

Sample Question

Practice with a sample question to get a feel for the Academic Discussion Task. This example will illustrate the type of questions and responses you will need to write.

Prompt: In a university online forum, the following discussion is taking place about the use of technology in education:

Student A: I believe that integrating technology in education enhances learning by providing access to a wealth of information and interactive tools.

Student B: While technology can be beneficial, it can also be a distraction and reduce students' focus on traditional learning methods.

Your Task: Write a response expressing your viewpoint on the use of technology in education. Support your argument with examples and engage with the perspectives provided by Student A and Student B.

Tips for Success

Success in the Academic Discussion Task comes from clear, well-supported arguments. Use these tips to effectively engage in the discussion and present your viewpoint.

• Read the prompt and any provided responses carefully to understand the context and the points made by your fictional classmates.
• Clearly state your opinion or argument in the first few sentences of your response.
• Use specific examples and logical reasoning to support your viewpoint.
• Engage with other perspectives by agreeing, disagreeing, or adding to the points made by your fictional classmates.
• Keep your response focused and concise, as you have limited time.

Mastering the TOEFL Writing section task types requires understanding the distinct formats of the tasks. Consistent practice and strategic preparation will help you achieve a high score and demonstrate your proficiency in academic English writing. Good luck!

Also Read:

• TOEFL Speaking Templates for All Speaking Tasks
• Common TOEFL Reading Section Difficulties
• Signal Words in TOEFL Listening
• How to Answer TOEFL Reading Sentence Insertion Questions