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

The TOEFL Speaking Independent Section of the TOEFL iBT® exam examines your overall ability to communicate on a variety of familiar topics. There are various core criteria based on which you will be assessed such as fluency and pronunciation in order to evaluate how clearly and fluently you speak. In addition to that, you will also be judged on the skills of organisation in which you response must be logically structured and you must utilise appropriate language use along with grammar and vocabulary. 

With the TOEFL Speaking Independent Practice Test on 'Online vs In-person Learning', you can practice to formulate a coherent response that would indicate your capacity to speak confidently in English. The content development should focus on how well you can support the ideas with appropriate examples. However, you must also consider the timing so that you can respond confidently within the given time frame.

So, are you ready? Let's start your journey!

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.

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. Clear pronunciation is key to make the listener comprehend your ideas well even if you don’t have a perfect accent. Finally focus more on fluency and clarity than on perfect grammar.

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:

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:

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 on completing this practice test! Shall we move on to the next one and take your speaking skills to the next level?

With such numerous practice tests which are tailored to help you improve specific aspects of your TOEFL Speaking performance, you will become aware of the structure to be followed.

Start today and take one step closer to your goal!

Also Read:

• Online vs Classroom - TOEFL Speaking Independent Practice Test with Responses
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• Taking Risks - TOEFL iBT® Speaking Independent Practice Test Paper with Responses