Should Genetic Information Be Used for Insurance Purposes - TOEFL Writing Academic Discussion Practice Test

In the writing section of the TOEFL iBT® exam, a candidate's writing ability in an academic context are evaluated. One has to be able to integrate knowledge and organise their ideas coherently while writing essays. With the Academic Discussion practice test on the topic, 'Should Genetic Information Be Used for Insurance Purposes', a candidate will hear lectures from a professor in an academic setting after which you need to express your opinion and provide justification for it.

The best way to prepare for this part of the test is to continue practicising using test papers as you will gain confidence and be self-assured on the test day. Let's kick off your preparation with our TOEFL Academic Discussion practice exam on "Should Genetic Information Be Used for Insurance Purposes."

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.

Well done! With consistent practice, you will be able to ace the TOEFL exam. Let's move on to the next test paper and work towards success.

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