What is the fee of registering for the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition?

Applicants who choose to take the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition must pay an amount of INR 16,900 for registering, which is the same for TOEFL iBT.

How many times is the TOEFL iBT Home Edition conducted in a month?

The TOEFL iBT Paper Edition is offered once or twice every month.

As the TOEFL iBT exam is conducted in two sessions, do I have to book two dates or one?

You need to schedule two appointments when you register: one at your neighbourhood testing facility and the other at your house.

In some places, why is the duration of the first session of TOEFL iBT Paper Edition written as three and half hours? What is the actual duration?

The test duration at a centre is three hours. An additional thirty minutes is allocated for test administration tasks, such as admitting examinees, allowing them to input identifying information, and managing test materials.

Are there any special requirements for the Speaking section of the TOEFL iBT Paper Edition?

As the Speaking section is conducted from home, please ensure that you have the required setup for both the equipment and environment before registering. You will get the details from the official website.

Online vs In-person Learning - TOEFL Independent Speaking Practice Test

Home Practice Tests TOEFL Speaking Practice Tests

Online vs In-person Learning - TOEFL Speaking Practice Test (Independent)

Reena Saini

4 min read

Updated On December 21, 2024

"Prepare for the TOEFL Independent Speaking section with the practice test on 'Online vs In-person Learning' along with sample answers to score higher."

Key Highlights

Question:
Points to Remember
Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Independent Speaking Test - Online vs In-person Learning

The TOEFL Independent Speaking section challenges you to share your views on familiar topics with clarity and confidence. Success requires not only good English skills but also the ability to structure your response effectively within the time limit. These practice materials will help you develop both the language and organizational skills needed for a high score.

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 believe that online learning offers more flexibility and convenience, while others argue that in-person learning provides a better educational experience. Which do you prefer, and why? Provide specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

Preparation Time: 15 Seconds

Response Time: 45 Seconds

Points to Remember

When addressing the question about online vs in-person learning, consider these key points to craft a well-rounded response. You must clearly state your position and provide specific reasons to justify your opinion. Include relevant examples and maintain a clear, logical organization. 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 - Online vs In-person Learning

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:

I prefer online learning because it is more flexible. Um, you can study at your own pace and time. For example, I can, uh, watch lectures anytime. Online learning is convenient because you don't have to travel. You can save time and money. Online learning is flexible because you can study at your own pace. In-person learning is good, but online is more flexible. I think online learning is better because it is more flexible. Uh, you can study at your own pace. Online learning is convenient because you don't have to travel. I think online learning is better because it is more flexible. In-person learning is good, but online is more flexible.

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 "Online learning is convenient because you don't have to travel. You can save time and money," where the verb form does not match the subject. Tense consistency is lacking, as seen in "I think online learning is better because it is more flexible." Article usage is incorrect in "In-person learning is good, but online is more flexible." Delivery is hindered by filler words like "Um" and "uh," and unnatural pauses, making speech choppy. Content development suffers from repetition, e.g., "Online learning is flexible because you can study at your own pace," and lacks supporting points like interaction in learning. To improve, the speaker should focus on varied vocabulary, clearer structure, and more detailed examples.

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

High-Level Answer Audio Transcript:

I prefer in-person learning because it fosters a more engaging and interactive environment. For instance, during my university years, attending lectures in person allowed me to participate in lively discussions and ask questions directly, which enhanced my understanding of the subject. Additionally, face-to-face interactions with peers and instructors helped me build a strong academic network, which proved invaluable for group projects and study sessions. While online learning offers convenience, I find that the lack of physical presence can lead to distractions and a sense of isolation. In-person learning also provides immediate feedback and clarification, which is crucial for grasping complex concepts. Overall, the dynamic and collaborative nature of in-person learning makes it my preferred choice for a comprehensive educational experience.

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 "attending lectures in person allowed me to participate," and sophisticated vocabulary, including "fosters," "engaging," and "dynamic." Complex sentence constructions are evident in phrases like "While online learning offers convenience, I find that the lack of physical presence can lead to distractions." The precise word usage enhances clarity and impact. Delivery is characterised by a natural flow and effective pacing, with clear articulation and smooth transitions, as seen in the seamless shift from discussing personal experiences to general observations. The content is well-organised, with strong supporting examples, such as "face-to-face interactions with peers and instructors," and coherent arguments that progress logically. The response demonstrates mastery in articulating a preference for in-person learning, with notable strengths in language use and content development to maintain.

Great job completing this practice test! Ready to take your speaking skills to the next level? We provide numerous practice opportunities tailored to help you improve specific aspects of your TOEFL Speaking performance.

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