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.

Short vs Long Vacations - TOEFL Independent Speaking Practice Test

Home Practice Tests TOEFL Speaking Practice Tests

Short vs Long Vacations - TOEFL Speaking Practice Test (Independent)

Reena Saini

4 min read

Updated On December 25, 2024

"Prepare for the TOEFL Independent Speaking section with the practice test on 'Short vs Long Vacations' along with sample answers to score higher."

Key Highlights

Question:
Points to Remember
Answer Key with Explanation for TOEFL Independent Speaking Test - Short vs Long Vacations

Scoring in the TOEFL Speaking section needs you to focus on preparation and attempt realistic practice tests. To help you with the skills, we've created personalized TOEFL Independent Speaking Practice Tests with Sample Answers. These tests simulate actual exam conditions, highlighting your strengths and weaknesses, and familiarizing you with the assessors' criteria.

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 taking several short vacations throughout the year, while others prefer taking one long vacation. Which do you prefer and why? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

Preparation Time: 15 Seconds

Response Time: 45 Seconds

Points to Remember

When addressing the question about short vs long vacations, 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 - Short vs Long Vacations

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, um, taking several short vacations. It is, uh, better because you can relax more often. For example, I take a short trip every few months. This helps me, you know, to feel less stressed. Also, short vacations are easier to plan. Last year, I went to, um, different places like the beach and the mountains. This was, aahh, very fun. Short vacations is good because they are not too long. I think, uh, they are more enjoyable. But, um, I forgot to mention that they are also cheaper. So, I prefer short vacations because they are, uh, more frequent and, um, relaxing.

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 "Short vacations is good," and tense inconsistency, as seen in "Last year, I went to, um, different places." Delivery is hindered by excessive filler words like "um," "uh," and "you know," which disrupt fluency and cause unnatural pauses, making the speech choppy and fragmented. Content development is weak, with repeated ideas like "I prefer, um, taking several short vacations" and "they are more enjoyable," lacking depth and support. The response is largely formulaic and fails to sustain a coherent argument. To improve, the speaker should focus on reducing filler words, ensuring grammatical accuracy, and developing more structured and supported content.

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

High-Level Answer Audio Transcript:

I prefer taking several short vacations throughout the year. This approach allows me to recharge more frequently, preventing burnout. For instance, a few days off every couple of months can help me maintain a balanced work-life routine. Additionally, short breaks provide opportunities to explore different destinations and experiences without the pressure of planning a long trip. Last year, I took a few short trips to nearby cities, which were refreshing and manageable. This variety keeps my life exciting and offers regular opportunities to unwind. Moreover, short vacations are often easier to plan and less disruptive to my work schedule, making them a practical choice for maintaining productivity. Overall, frequent short vacations offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, fitting seamlessly into my lifestyle.

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 "This approach allows me to recharge more frequently, preventing burnout," demonstrating control over complex sentences. Sophisticated vocabulary choices like "maintain a balanced work-life routine" and "disruptive to my work schedule" enhance the response's clarity and precision. The delivery is characterised by a natural flow and effective pacing, with clear articulation and smooth transitions, as seen in the seamless progression from discussing personal benefits to practical advantages. The content is well-organised, with coherent arguments supported by specific examples, such as "Last year, I took a few short trips to nearby cities." The response's notable strengths include its sustained coherence and the ability to articulate a compelling preference, which should be maintained.

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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