Library Material Borrowing - TOEFL Speaking Practice Test with Answers (Integrated)

The Integrated Speaking Task stands out as a unique challenge in the TOEFL examination, testing more than just speaking ability. It assesses how well you can understand, combine, and present information from both reading materials and conversations.

To succeed, you'll need to demonstrate excellence in multiple areas: clear pronunciation, smooth delivery, appropriate word choice, and organized presentation. This practice test focusing on "Library Material Borrowing" has been specially designed to help you master these critical skills.

Are you ready to take your TOEFL preparation to the next level? Let's start this practice session and build your confidence in integrated speaking!

Instructions:

• You will first read a short passage about a campus-related announcement or proposed change. You will have 45 seconds to read the passage.
• Then you will listen to a conversation between two speakers discussing their opinions about the announcement or change.
• After the conversation ends, you will be asked to respond to a question about what you read and heard.
• You will have 30 seconds to prepare your response.
• You will have 60 seconds to speak about the speaker's opinion and the reasons they give for holding that opinion.

The university library has announced a new policy regarding the borrowing of materials.

Library Material Borrowing

The university library is implementing a new policy to enhance the availability of materials for all students. Starting next semester, the borrowing period for books will be reduced from four weeks to two weeks. Additionally, students will be allowed to renew books only once, instead of the previous unlimited renewals. This change aims to ensure that more students have access to high-demand resources, particularly during peak academic periods. The library believes this will improve resource circulation and reduce waiting times for popular books.

Directions: After the passage appears, a timer located at the top of your computer screen will commence counting down the time allocated for reading. Once the reading time concludes, the passage will disappear from the screen, replacing an image showing a student.

Now, listen to this Audio and answer the question that follows and answer the question that follows.

Directions: Once the lecture concludes, the picture of the two students will be replaced by a screen instructing you to prepare to answer the question. Subsequently, the following question will appear on the screen and will be read aloud by a narrator.

Question

State the speakers' opinions about the new library borrowing policy and explain their reasons for agreeing or disagreeing.

Hold on to those answer sheets! Before you jump into the sample response, make sure to go through our top 7 Tips for TOEFL preparation. 

Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Speaking Test - Library Material Borrowing

We've provided two sample responses at different proficiency levels (mid-level and high-level). By comparing the differences, you'll gain valuable insights into the key elements that contribute to achieving a top score on the TOEFL exam.

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

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Rater’s Comment:

The response earns a Score 1 due to significant language and delivery issues. Language errors include subject-verb agreement, as in "Speaker A and Speaker B talks," and pronoun reference, such as "They, um, worry" without clear antecedents. Delivery is hindered by excessive filler words like "um" and "uh," causing unnatural pauses and choppy speech, e.g., "Speaker A, uh, thinks two weeks is too short." Content development is weak, with repeated ideas like "Speaker A is not sure" and missing support points, such as the specific benefits of the policy. The response lacks coherence and fails to develop ideas fully. To improve, the speaker should focus on reducing filler words, ensuring grammatical accuracy, and providing more detailed content with clear transitions. These changes would enhance clarity and coherence, potentially raising the score.

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

Rater’s Comment:

The response earns a score of 4 due to its comprehensive coverage of the task, demonstrating a clear understanding of both speakers' perspectives. Language strengths are evident in the use of advanced grammar, such as "Speaker A expresses concerns about the new library borrowing policy," and sophisticated vocabulary like "sceptical" and "in-depth research projects." The response features complex sentence constructions, exemplified by "Speaker B suggests that the policy will encourage better planning and might lead the library to acquire more copies of popular books." Delivery is smooth, with a natural flow and effective pacing, ensuring high intelligibility. Content development is strong, with a well-organised structure and coherent arguments, as seen in the clear distinction between Speaker A's concerns and Speaker B's support. The response's mastery is highlighted by its precise word usage and logical progression of ideas, making it a high-level performance.

How did you do on this practice test? Whether you're satisfied or see room for improvement, we've got you covered! Our extensive collection of practice materials is designed to help you strengthen your speaking abilities and excel in the TOEFL exam.

Remember, consistent practice is the key to success!

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