Should Countries Prioritize Renewable Resources Over Economic Growth - TOEFL Writing Academic Discussion Practice Test

In the TOEFL iBT^® exam, the writing test assesses a candidate's ability to write academically, where they are required to successfully integrate the knowledge into their work and organize the ideas coherently. The two Writing Sections, such as Academic Discussion and Integrated Writing, make up the Writing Section.

In this practice test on 'Should Countries Prioritise Renewable Resources Over Economic Growth', you will hear a lecture on a certain subject from a professor in the Academic Discussion activity. After that, you'll take part in a conversation where you'll have to voice your opinion and provide solid justification for it

The best method to get ready for this part of the test is to practice on tests specifically made for the Academic Discussion format. Let's start your study with our "Should Countries Prioritise Renewable Resources Over Economic Growth"-themed TOEFL Academic Discussion practice exam.

Writing Instructions:

• You will read a discussion related to an academic topic in class where your classmates have written their opinions on the said topic.
• You have 10 minutes to prepare and write your personal opinion on the academic topic. 
• Try to answer the question based on the discussion. You can also take ideas from the opinions posted by your classmates.
• There is no maximum word limit. However, an effective response should be a minimum of 100 words.
• Your response will be judged on the quality and clarity of your writing with well-supported reasons.

Instruction: Your professor is teaching a class on environmental policy. Write a post responding to the professors question. In your response, you should

1. express and support your personal opinion
2. make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.

An effective response will contain at least 100 words. You have ten minutes to write.

Professor: As we dive into the topic of renewable resources and economic growth, I want to hear your thoughts. Should countries focus more on developing renewable resources than on immediate economic growth? Why or why not?

Olivia: I think countries should focus on renewable resources. Investing in renewable energy can bring long-term economic benefits. It creates steady jobs and cuts down dependency on limited supplies. For example, countries like Germany have seen economic growth by investing in solar and wind energy. Also, focusing on renewables helps fight climate change, making sure we have a healthier planet for future generations.

Daniel: While renewable resources are important, I think immediate economic growth should come first. Strong economic growth gives us the money to invest in renewable tech later. For example, countries with strong economies, like the United States, have more supplies to spend on research and development in renewable energy. Without a strong economy, it would be hard to fund these projects effectively.

Before delving into sample responses, let us examine the parameters of a strong TOEFL score!

Sample Response for the Academic Discussion Writing Task on Should Countries Prioritise Renewable Resources Over Economic Growth

Below are the two responses for the Academic Discussion Writing question where one of them showcases a mid-level proficiency while the other exhibits a high level of skills. Through examining the distinctions, you will acquire valuable insights into the components that lead to attaining an exceptional score in the Writing section.

Score 3 Response

I think countries should focus more on developing renewable resources. Renewable energy can bring long-term benefits, like creating jobs and reducing dependency on fossil fuels. For example, Germany has seen economic growth by investing in solar and wind energy. Also, focusing on renewables helps fight climate change, which is important for future generations. While Daniel's point about needing a strong economy to fund renewable projects is valid, waiting too long could make climate change worse. This would lead to more problems in the future. So, I believe that investing in renewable resources now is the better choice. (Word Count - 97)

Rater’s Comment

This response addresses the prompt by expressing a clear opinion that countries should prioritize renewable resources over immediate economic growth. The writer supports this stance with relevant examples, such as Germany's investment in solar and wind energy, and mentions the long-term benefits of renewable energy, including job creation and reduced dependency on fossil fuels. However, the response lacks depth and detailed reasoning compared to the high-level response. The argument is somewhat repetitive, as seen in the sentence "Renewable energy can bring long-term benefits, like creating jobs and reducing dependency on fossil fuels." Additionally, there are minor grammatical errors, such as the incorrect tense usage in "Germany has seen economic growth by investing in solar and wind energy" and redundancy in "waiting too long could make climate change worse. This would lead to more problems in the future." Despite these issues, the response is generally comprehensible and contributes to the discussion, making it a mid-level response.

Score 5 Response

While both Olivia and Daniel make compelling points, I believe that prioritizing the development of renewable resources is more crucial than focusing solely on immediate economic growth. Renewable energy investments not only provide long-term economic benefits but also address pressing environmental concerns. For instance, countries like Germany have demonstrated that investing in solar and wind energy can lead to sustainable economic growth and job creation. Additionally, renewable resources reduce dependency on finite fossil fuels, which are subject to volatile market prices. This stability can foster a more resilient economy in the long run. Daniel's argument that strong economic growth is necessary to fund renewable projects is valid, but it overlooks the fact that delaying investment in renewables could exacerbate climate change, leading to more severe economic and environmental crises. By prioritizing renewable resources now, we can mitigate these risks and ensure a healthier planet for future generations. Therefore, a balanced approach that integrates renewable energy development with economic growth strategies is essential for sustainable progress. (Word count - 165 words)

Rater’s Comment

This response effectively addresses the prompt by presenting a clear and well-reasoned argument in favor of prioritizing renewable resources over immediate economic growth. The writer acknowledges the points made by both Olivia and Daniel, thereby demonstrating an understanding of the ongoing discussion. The response is well-organized, with a logical flow of ideas that support the main argument. Specific examples, such as Germany's investment in solar and wind energy, are used to illustrate the long-term economic benefits of renewable resources. The writer also addresses potential counterarguments, such as Daniel's point about the need for strong economic growth to fund renewable projects, and provides a reasoned rebuttal. The language is formal and appropriate for an academic setting, with clear and concise sentences that enhance readability. Overall, the response is coherent, well-supported, and free from major grammatical errors, making it a strong contribution to the discussion.

Strategies for Taking the Academic Discussion Writing Task 

The TOEFL Academic Discussion Writing Task may seem difficult and can cause you to become nervous. But don't feel scared! You can do this task effectively by incorporating a few vital strategies to ace your proficiency in academic writing.

• It is important to have a detailed examination of the question which is necessary to comprehend both the main idea and the setting for that specific question. It is necessary to consider the provided guidelines, such as providing a response that addresses all relevant angles.
• Finding the key arguments is made simpler by dissecting the question into its constituent parts. It's critical to successfully manage each component at the same time while organising the response.
• Before attempting to write the answer, always plan and come up with ideas and use them as examples so that you can showcase a range of perspectives.
• Making an outline ensures that the response is cohesive and the concepts are well-organized.
• Giving evidence or statistics to support assertions and points of view demonstrates your grasp of the subject.
• Avoid using any slang or informal language; instead, stick to professional language and academic terminologies, paying close attention to grammar and punctuation.

Finally, it's time for you to shine! Attempt the practice question and share your response in the comments! 

Our TOEFL experts are more than willing to provide valuable feedback which would help you achieve your target score!  Let's improve your writing skills together!

Additional Reads:

• Teamwork - TOEFL Writing Integrated Practice Questions with Answer Key
• Is a Vegetarian Diet Healthier for the Environment and Humans - TOEFL Writing Integrated Practice Test
• Should High School Education Be Extended to Five Years - TOEFL Writing Integrated Practice Test
• Wearing Masks During Pandemic - TOEFL Speaking Independent Practice Questions with Answer Key
• The Role of Space Exploration in Advancing Science - TOEFL Writing Integrated Practice Test