Should Genetic Information Be Used for Insurance Purposes - 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 Genetic Information Be Used for Insurance Purposes', 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 Genetic Information Be Used for Insurance Purposes"-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 ethics in modern society. 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: Today, were going to discuss the ethical effects of using genetic information for insurance purposes. Some argue that it could lead to better risk assessment and lower premiums for those with favorable genetics. Others believe it could result in discrimination and invasion of privacy. What is your stance on this issue?

Olivia: I think using genetic information for insurance purposes is unethical. It could lead to discrimination against people who have genetic tendencies to certain diseases. This makes it hard for them to get insurance or afford premiums. This practice could also invade personal privacy, as genetic information is very sensitive. Instead, insurance companies should focus on fair ways to assess risk without harming individual rights.

Jack: But I understand the concerns about privacy and discrimination, I think using genetic information could improve the insurance industry. It would allow for more accurate risk checks, possibly lowering premiums for those with lower genetic risks. This could make insurance more affordable for many people. Strict rules would be needed to prevent misuse and ensure that people are not unfairly discriminated against based on their genetic information.

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 Genetic Information Be Used for Insurance Purposes

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 agree with Olivia that using genetic information for insurance is not ethical. It can lead to discrimination against people who have genetic risks for diseases. This makes it hard for them to get insurance or afford premiums. Also, genetic information is very personal and should be kept private. Jack's idea about improving risk checks is interesting, but I think the risk of misuse is too high. Even with strict rules, there is a chance that people will be unfairly treated. Insurance companies should find other ways to assess risk that do not involve genetic information. This would be more fair and protect people's privacy. (Word Count - 105)

Rater’s Comment

This response addresses the prompt by agreeing with Olivia's stance against using genetic information for insurance purposes. The writer provides reasons for this position, such as the potential for discrimination and invasion of privacy. However, the response lacks depth and complexity in its argumentation. The points made are valid but not well-developed. Additionally, there are noticeable grammatical errors, such as "This makes it hard for them to get insurance or afford premiums," where "makes" should be "make" to agree with the plural subject "risks." Another error is "Jack's idea about improving risk checks is interesting," where "is" should be "are" to agree with the plural subject "risk checks." Despite these issues, the response is generally comprehensible and contributes to the discussion, making it deserving of a mid-level score.

Score 5 Response

While the potential for improved risk assessment is appealing, I firmly believe that using genetic information for insurance purposes is unethical. Olivia's point about discrimination is particularly compelling. Individuals with genetic predispositions to certain diseases could face exorbitant premiums or be denied coverage altogether, which is inherently unfair. Moreover, genetic information is deeply personal and sensitive. The potential for invasion of privacy is significant, as Jack acknowledges. Even with strict regulations, the risk of misuse remains high. Instead, insurance companies should develop fairer methods to assess risk that do not compromise individual rights or privacy. For example, they could focus on lifestyle factors and medical history, which are less invasive and more equitable. This approach would ensure that everyone has access to affordable insurance without the fear of genetic discrimination. (Word count - 130 words)

Rater’s Comment

This response effectively addresses the prompt by presenting a clear and well-reasoned argument against the use of genetic information for insurance purposes. The writer acknowledges both Olivia's and Jack's points, thereby engaging with the ongoing discussion. The response is well-organized, beginning with a firm stance and then providing specific reasons and examples to support this position. The mention of alternative methods for risk assessment, such as focusing on lifestyle factors and medical history, adds depth to the argument and demonstrates critical thinking. The language is formal and appropriate for an academic setting, and the response is free from major grammatical errors. Overall, the response is coherent, logical, and contributes meaningfully to the discussion, making it deserving of a high score.

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!

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