Should Schools Ban the Use of Smartphones During Class - TOEFL Writing for Academic Discussion

Engaging in academic discussions is a crucial skill, and the TOEFL Writing section tests this through its Academic Discussion task. You’ll need to evaluate a lecture and respond thoughtfully with evidence-based arguments. This practice test is your opportunity to master this aspect of the exam. Let's begin your practice with our TOEFL Academic Discussion sample test on "Should Schools Ban the Use of Smartphones During Class".

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.

Instructions: Your professor is teaching a class on environmental science. Write a post responding to the professor's 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.

Professor: As we explore the topic of technology in education, I want to hear your thoughts on a specific issue. Should schools ban the use of smartphones during class? Why or why not? Consider both the potential benefits and drawbacks of such a policy.

Emily: I believe that schools should ban the use of smartphones during class. Smartphones can be a big distraction for students, stopping them from fully participating in the lesson. And, the existence of smartphones can make it easier to cheat during exams and quizzes. By banning smartphones, schools can create a more focused and honest academic environment. For instance, a study showed that students who did not use smartphones during class did better on tests.

Oliver: Though I understand Emily's concerns, I think that banning smartphones completely is not the best solution. Smartphones can be useful educational tools when used correctly. They can provide quick access to information, educational apps, and group tools that enhance learning. Rather than banning them, schools should set guidelines and teach students how to use smartphones responsibly. Like, teachers can include smartphone-based activities that match the lessons.

Wait! Let's learn more about the TOEFL Exam Pattern and Syllabus before checking out the sample answers to the Academic Discussion Writing task!

Sample Response for the Academic Discussion Writing Task on - Should Schools Ban the Use of Smartphones During Class

We’ve included two sample responses for the Writing Academic Discussion Task—one illustrating a high-level response and the other a mid-level response. Reviewing these examples will help you understand the scoring criteria for each level and enhance your writing skills as a result.

High-level Response

While smartphones can indeed be a significant distraction in the classroom, I believe that an outright ban is not the best solution. Oliver makes a valid point about the potential educational benefits of smartphones when used responsibly. These devices can provide quick access to information, educational apps, and collaborative tools that can enhance the learning experience. For example, teachers can incorporate smartphone-based activities that align with the lesson, such as interactive quizzes or research tasks, to make learning more engaging and dynamic.

Instead of banning smartphones, schools should focus on setting clear guidelines and teaching students how to use these devices responsibly. This approach can help students develop self-discipline and digital literacy skills, which are essential in today's technology-driven world. By integrating smartphones into the curriculum in a controlled and purposeful manner, educators can harness their potential as powerful educational tools while minimizing distractions.

Moreover, a complete ban on smartphones may not be practical or enforceable, leading to potential conflicts between students and teachers. A more balanced approach that includes structured use and clear expectations can create a positive learning environment without completely eliminating the benefits that smartphones can offer.

Rater’s Comment

This response merits a high score due to its clear and well-developed argument. The writer effectively addresses the prompt by presenting a balanced view of the use of smartphones in the classroom. The response is well-organized, with each paragraph focusing on a specific aspect of the argument. The first paragraph discusses the educational benefits of smartphones, while the second paragraph emphasizes the importance of setting guidelines and teaching responsible use. The language is formal and appropriate for an academic discussion, and the response is free from major grammatical errors. Overall, the writer provides a compelling and coherent argument that contributes meaningfully to the discussion.

Mid-level Response

I think schools should not completely ban smartphones during class. While they can be distracting, they can also be useful for learning if used properly. If teachers guide students on how to use smartphones responsibly, they can become a valuable tool in the classroom. However, I agree with Emily that there should be rules to prevent misuse, like turning off phones during exams to stop cheating. Instead of banning smartphones altogether, schools could create strict guidelines to balance their benefits and prevent distractions.

Rater’s Comment

This response presents a reasonable argument against banning smartphones entirely, offering a balanced view. The writer acknowledges both the benefits and drawbacks of smartphone use in class, showing an understanding of the issue. However, the response could benefit from more detailed examples and clearer explanations, especially when discussing how smartphones could enhance learning. The grammar and structure are generally good, but the ideas could be more fully developed to strengthen the argument. Overall, it's a clear but somewhat basic response that could improve with more depth.

Strategies for Taking the Academic Discussion Writing Task on - Should Schools Ban the Use of Smartphones During Class

It's time to examine the tips our experts have developed and put them to work as we practice with TOEFL Writing mock tests. Check the following strategies for taking an academic discussion task.

• Carefully read the professor's questions and responses from other students. Identify key arguments presented on both sides of the debate.

• Note the advantages and the disadvantages. This will help you address the prompt fully.

• Decide whether you agree more with the benefits or the drawbacks. Make sure your stance is clear from the beginning and supported throughout your response.

• A well-rounded response addresses the opposing viewpoint. While supporting your own position, briefly explain why the drawbacks or opposing side may still be valid but less significant.

Feeling confident after exploring the sample response and writing strategies? Put your knowledge into practice! All the best!

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