Freelance vs Permanent Jobs - TOEFL Speaking Practice Test (Independent)

The Independent Speaking Section of the TOEFL iBT® exam tests your ability in speaking and coherence on well-known topics. In this section, you are required to showcase good English skills as well as planning your response because of the limited time. It is necessary to develop skills which will help improve your level of English proficiency. With the practice tests like these you will be abel to transform your language and organisational skills. Remember that with practice, you will have a winning shot at scoring higher in the exam.

Preparing yourself with the TOEFL Independent Speaking Practice Test on 'Freelance vs Permanent Jobs' through which you will be able to speak clearly and confidently on a topic. Your responses are assessed based on the organisation of ideas, strength for the supporting details, and the use of appropriate language and pronunciation. It might seem intimidating at first; however, with diligent practice, you will be able to ace the test.

Let's get started!

Instructions:

• You'll receive a familiar topic to speak about with no accompanying reading or listening passages.
• After hearing the question, you will have 15 seconds to prepare your response and 45 seconds to deliver it.
• Remember, 15 seconds might seem short, but it's ample time for preparation.
• For this Question, you'll encounter two situations or opinions and must express your preference, providing reasons for your choice.

Now, play this Audio to hear the Question.

Question:

Some people prefer the flexibility and independence of freelance work, while others value the stability and benefits of a permanent job. Which do you prefer and why? Provide specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

Points to Remember

When addressing the question about freelance vs permanent jobs, consider these key points to craft a well-rounded response. You must clearly state your position and provide specific reasons to justify your opinion. Use a structured answer: State what you would do, why you would do it, and what you hope the outcome would be. Include relevant examples and maintain a clear, logical organization. While examples and reasons can be included as part of your opinion, don't over explain or include irrelevant details because it's important within the 45-second time limit. Therefore, address only the most relevant points that directly relate to the question. Your response should be concise yet detailed enough to demonstrate your speaking abilities within the time limit.

Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Independent Speaking Test - Freelance vs Permanent Jobs

Here, we've included two sample answers, one at a mid-level and one at a high-level proficiency. By comparing the differences in language use, you will gain valuable insights into the key elements that contribute to achieving a higher TOEFL score.

Listen to the audio recording to hear a mid-level answer to the provided question.

Mid-Level Answer Audio Transcript:

Rater’s Comment:

The response earns a Score 1 due to its limited content and coherence. Language errors include subject-verb agreement issues, such as "Freelance work is, um, flexible and gives independence," where the verb form does not match the subject. The response is riddled with filler words like "um," "uh," and "you know," which disrupt the flow and clarity of speech. Unnatural pauses occur frequently, particularly after "I prefer, um," and "I can, aahh, manage my time," leading to choppy delivery. Content development is weak, with repeated phrases like "freelance work is flexible" and "permanent jobs are stable," lacking substantive support or examples. The response is largely repetitive and fails to develop a coherent argument. To score higher, the speaker should reduce filler words, provide specific examples, and improve grammatical accuracy.

Listen to the audio recording to hear a high-level answer to the provided question

High-Level Answer Audio Transcript:

Rater’s Comment:

This response earns a score of 4 due to its effective language use, clear delivery, and well-developed content. The speaker employs advanced grammar structures, such as "Having a steady income provides financial security," and uses sophisticated vocabulary like "financial security" and "structured environment." Complex sentence constructions, such as "While freelance work offers flexibility, the uncertainty of income and lack of benefits make it less appealing to me," demonstrate precise word usage. The delivery is characterised by a natural flow and effective pacing, with clear articulation and smooth transitions, as seen in the seamless shift from discussing financial security to benefits like health insurance. The content is strongly organised, with effective supporting examples, such as budgeting for long-term goals, and a coherent progression of ideas. The response's notable strengths include its clarity, coherence, and the ability to maintain a structured argument throughout.

Excellent work! Ready for more challenges? We offer a wide range of practice tests specifically designed to strengthen your speaking skills and boost your TOEFL performance. Remember that every practice session builds your path to success!

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