The Impact of Globalization on Language Preservation - 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 'The Impact of Globalisation on Language Preservation', 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 "The Impact of Globalisation on Language Preservation"-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 cultural studies. 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: In our next class, we will talk about the impact of the worldwide influence on keeping languages alive. Some say the global spread makes languages disappear, while others think it helps cultures share and understand each other. Do you think the global spread is more harmful or helpful to keeping languages alive? Why?

Charlotte: I think the global spread is more harmful to keeping languages alive. As global talking is led by a few big languages like English and Chinese, smaller languages might disappear. Such as, many local languages are already at risk. Younger people want to learn big languages for better jobs. This loss of language variety means losing unique cultures and knowledge.

Jack: But, I think the global spread can help keep languages alive. It gives less common languages a chance to be known worldwide. Like, social media lets speakers of rare languages connect and share tools. And, the global spread supports cultural sharing. That can make more people interested in saving different languages. This global understanding can help protect and bring back languages that might otherwise be lost.

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

Sample Response for the Academic Discussion Writing Task on The Impact of Globalisation on Language Preservation

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 the global spread is more helpful to keeping languages alive. Jack's idea about social media is good. People can share their languages and cultures online, which helps others learn about them. Also, language learning apps now have courses in rare languages, so more people can learn them. However, it's true that big languages like English can make smaller ones disappear. But, with the right tools, we can use global spread to save languages. For example, social media can connect people who speak rare languages and help them share resources. This way, the global spread can help keep languages alive. (Word Count - 101)

Rater’s Comment

This response attempts to address the prompt by arguing that the global spread is more helpful in keeping languages alive. The writer supports this view by mentioning social media and language learning apps as tools for language preservation. However, the response lacks depth and coherence. The argument is not fully developed, and the examples provided are somewhat repetitive. Additionally, there are grammatical errors, such as redundancy in "share their languages and cultures online" and incorrect tense usage in "language learning apps now have courses in rare languages." These errors detract from the overall clarity and effectiveness of the response. While the writer makes a valid point, the response could benefit from more detailed reasoning and examples to strengthen the argument.

Score 5 Response

While both perspectives have merit, I believe the global spread is more helpful in keeping languages alive. Jack's point about social media is particularly compelling. Platforms like YouTube and Instagram allow speakers of endangered languages to share their culture and language with a global audience. This exposure can spark interest and support from people who might not have otherwise been aware of these languages. Additionally, global communication fosters cultural exchange, which can lead to collaborative efforts to preserve languages. For instance, language learning apps now offer courses in less common languages, making them accessible to a broader audience. While it's true that dominant languages like English and Chinese can overshadow smaller ones, the global spread also provides tools and platforms for preservation and revitalization. Therefore, I argue that the global spread, when leveraged correctly, can be a powerful force in keeping languages alive. (Word count - 143 words)

Rater’s Comment

This response effectively addresses the prompt by presenting a clear and well-supported argument that the global spread is more helpful in keeping languages alive. The writer acknowledges both sides of the debate but ultimately sides with the view that global communication can aid in language preservation. The response is well-organized, beginning with an introduction that states the writer's stance, followed by specific examples and reasoning to support this view. The mention of social media platforms and language learning apps as tools for language preservation adds depth to the argument. The response is coherent and free from major grammatical errors, making it easy to understand. Overall, the writer demonstrates a strong ability to engage with the topic and contribute meaningfully 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!

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