Biology
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Read a short passage
03:00
Antlers are extensions of the skull grown by members of the deer and antelope family. They are bone structures usually found in symmetrical pairs and, in most species, are only grown by the males of the species. Antlers have several functions such as fighting or attracting females. The following are...
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Sample Writing Review
Score Summary
4.5 / 6
AI Review
Task Fulfillment
5/5
Overall Organization
4/5
Relevance & Quality of Supporting Ideas
4/5
Grammatical Usage
2/5
Vocabulary Usage
3/5
Connections & Coherence
4/5
Grammar Corrections & Feedback
Correction Legend
Detailed Feedback
Task Fulfillment
Strengths
Overall Organization
Strengths
Relevance & Quality of Supporting Ideas
Strengths
Grammatical Usage
Strengths
Vocabulary Usage
Strengths
Connections & Coherence
Strengths
Corrections in red
Academic language suggestion in blue
General comments in green
Academic language suggestion in blue
General comments in green
Detailed Feedback
Essay Grammar Corrections & Improvements
I hope you are fine. My name is Philip and I am one of your reader. readers. I really like your poetry magazine very much because the poems are very deep and emotional. Every time when I read the magazine, I feel inspired and peaceful. I also like that you give a chance for to new writers to share their works. It make makes me more confidence confident to send my poems.
Last week, I tried to submit two of my poems by through the online submission form on your website. After I upload uploaded my files and click clicked the submit button, the page suddenly show showed an error and become became blank. I did not receive any confirmation email, so I am not sure if my poems was were received or not.
Could you please tell me about the status of my submissions? I worry that maybe they did not go through.
Last week, I tried to submit two of my poems by through the online submission form on your website. After I upload uploaded my files and click clicked the submit button, the page suddenly show showed an error and become became blank. I did not receive any confirmation email, so I am not sure if my poems was were received or not.
Could you please tell me about the status of my submissions? I worry that maybe they did not go through.
Task Fulfillment
Strengths
- Clear purpose and request
- Good context as a reader and supporter
- Polite tone and direct question
- Key details about the problem
Clear purpose and request: Your email explains the reason for writing in a simple way. You say there was an error when you tried to submit poems and you want to know the status. The sentence “Could you please tell me about the status of my submissions?” shows a direct and clear request. This matches the goal of the email very well.
Good context as a reader and supporter: You introduce yourself as “one of your reader” and explain that you like the magazine. This context helps the staff understand who you are and why you care. Your praise of the magazine shows a positive relationship and gives a friendly start.
Polite tone and direct question: Your tone is respectful and kind. You use “I hope you are fine” and “Could you please…,” which are polite phrases. This makes your request feel friendly and professional, which is helpful in emails.
Key details about the problem: You include useful information: you submitted “two of my poems,” you used “the online submission form,” the page “show error and become blank,” and you “did not receive any confirmation email.” These details help the staff understand the problem and check the system.
Weaknesses no weaknesses were found.Overall Organization
Strengths
- Clear paragraph structure
- Logical flow from praise to problem to request
- Focused sentences in each part
- Concise length without extra ideas
Clear paragraph structure: Your email has three short paragraphs. The first gives background and praise. The second explains the problem. The third asks a question. This structure is easy to follow and helps the reader move step by step.
Logical flow from praise to problem to request: You begin with positive comments, then describe what went wrong, and finally make a request. This order makes sense and guides the reader. The staff can understand your situation quickly and see what action you want.
Focused sentences in each part: Each paragraph keeps one main idea. The first is about being a reader and feeling inspired. The second is about the submission error and no confirmation. The third is your request for the status. This focus improves clarity.
Concise length without extra ideas: You do not include unrelated stories or long explanations. The message is short and clear, so it respects the reader’s time.
Weaknesses- Transitions between parts could be smoother
- Ending could include a brief closing line for flow
Transitions between parts could be smoother: The move from praise to the problem is sudden. A short link like “However” or “Recently, I had an issue” before the second paragraph would make the change softer. For example: “However, last week I had a problem with the online form.” This small change improves the reading flow.
Ending could include a brief closing line for flow: After your question, you can add one short sentence to close smoothly, such as “Thank you for your help.” This does not add new content, but it gives a polite ending and better balance to the message.
Exercises for Improvement- Write the same email adding one transition word at the start of paragraph two and a short closing line at the end.
- Make a simple outline (Background → Problem → Request) and check each sentence fits its part.
- Practice writing three versions of endings: gratitude, availability, and expectation (e.g., “Thank you…,” “I am available…,” “I look forward to…”).
Relevance & Quality of Supporting Ideas
Strengths
- All details focus on the submission issue
- Specific information about actions and results
- Clear reason for confusion (no confirmation email)
- Polite and relevant request for status
All details focus on the submission issue: You do not include unrelated information. Your message stays on the topic of sending poems and a website error. This focus keeps the email easy to understand and helpful for the staff.
Specific information about actions and results: You say you “tried to submit two of my poems,” used “the online submission form,” clicked the submit button, and then the page “show error and become blank.” These steps show what you did and what happened, which can help the team check their system.
Clear reason for confusion (no confirmation email): You explain you did not receive a confirmation email. This is a strong supporting detail because it shows why you are not sure the poems were received. It is a common sign of a failed submission, so it makes your concern reasonable.
Polite and relevant request for status: The question you ask is exactly connected to the details you shared. It asks for the result of your submission, which matches the problem described.
Weaknesses- Some descriptions are not precise enough
- Sequence could be made clearer with small edits
Some descriptions are not precise enough: The phrase “show error and become blank” is a little unclear. You can make it stronger by saying “showed an error message and then the page went blank.” This gives a clear picture. Also, “submit… by the online submission form” sounds odd. “Through” or “via the online submission form” is more natural and precise.
Sequence could be made clearer with small edits: You can make the order of actions easier to follow with exact past tense verbs: “After I uploaded my files and clicked the submit button, the page showed an error and became blank. I did not receive a confirmation email.” This change keeps the timeline very clear.
Exercises for Improvement- Rewrite the problem sentence using exact past tense verbs and the phrase “error message” and “went blank.”
- Add one precise detail (for example, the day of the week) to practice making support stronger without adding new topics.
- Practice a three-step sequence explanation (Action → System response → Result for you) for two similar tech issues.
Grammatical Usage
Strengths
- Meaning is clear despite errors
- Polite question form used correctly
Meaning is clear despite errors: Even with grammar mistakes, the reader can understand your situation and your request. The main ideas are complete, and the message is not confusing.
Polite question form used correctly: “Could you please tell me about the status of my submissions?” is a correct and polite way to ask. This shows good control of modal verbs and polite forms.
Weaknesses- Subject–verb agreement and plural forms
- Verb tense consistency (use past tense for past actions)
- Articles and determiners
- Prepositions and natural structures
- Word form and collocations
Subject–verb agreement and plural forms: “one of your reader” should be “one of your readers.” “It make me more confidence” should be “It makes me more confident.” Also, “my poems was received” should be “my poems were received.” These changes fix agreement and plural issues.
Verb tense consistency (use past tense for past actions): Use past tense for completed actions: “After I uploaded my files and clicked the submit button, the page showed an error and became blank.” This is more correct than “upload / click / show / become.”
Articles and determiners: Add needed articles: “give a chance,” “the submit button,” “an error.” Articles help the reader understand which item you mean.
Prepositions and natural structures: “submit… by the online submission form” sounds odd. Better: “submit… through the online submission form” or “via the online submission form.” Natural prepositions make sentences smoother.
Word form and collocations: Use “confident” (adjective), not “confidence” (noun), in “It makes me more confident.” Also, “share their work” is more common than “share their works.”
Exercises for Improvement- Subject–verb agreement drill: write 10 sentences fixing errors like “It make” → “It makes,” “poems was” → “poems were.”
- Past tense practice: rewrite your second paragraph using only past tense verbs for each action.
- Articles worksheet: add a/an/the to 15 short noun phrases like “__ error,” “__ submit button,” “__ chance.”
- Preposition practice: choose the best option (through/via/by/with) in 12 submission sentences.
- Error correction: fix and explain five sentences from your email to build awareness.
Vocabulary Usage
Strengths
- Appropriate polite phrases
- Useful emotional and topic words
- Correct use of “submission(s)” and “confirmation email”
Appropriate polite phrases: You use polite sets like “I hope you are fine” and “Could you please…,” which are suitable for formal emails and show respect.
Useful emotional and topic words: Words such as “poetry magazine,” “deep,” “emotional,” “inspired,” and “peaceful” fit the context and help express your feelings clearly. They also show you understand the topic.
Correct use of “submission(s)” and “confirmation email”: These are the right terms for this situation. They make your request more precise and professional.
Weaknesses- Some awkward or incorrect collocations
- Repetition and weak intensifiers
- Lack of precise technical terms for the error
Some awkward or incorrect collocations: “give chance” should be “give a chance” or “offer opportunities.” “more confidence” should be “more confident.” “share their works” is better as “share their work.” Natural collocations make your English sound smoother.
Repetition and weak intensifiers: You repeat “very” in “really like… very much.” Choose one strong word: “I really enjoy your poetry magazine” or “I like your poetry magazine very much.” This avoids repetition and sounds more natural.
Lack of precise technical terms for the error: Instead of “show error and become blank,” use “showed an error message,” “went blank,” or “crashed.” These terms explain the problem more clearly and professionally.
Exercises for Improvement- Collocation matching: pair verbs and nouns (offer opportunities, submit via, receive confirmation, show an error message).
- Synonym practice: replace “really like… very much” with one stronger verb (enjoy, appreciate, value).
- Precision task: write three versions of the error sentence using “error message,” “blank page,” and “crashed.”
- Paraphrasing drill: rewrite the praise sentence in two different ways without repeating “very.”
Connections & Coherence
Strengths
- Logical sequencing of ideas
- Use of linking words
- Clear cause-and-effect
- Short, readable paragraphs
Logical sequencing of ideas: The email starts with background, moves to the problem, and ends with the request. This order helps the reader understand quickly and respond easily.
Use of linking words: You use some connectors like “because,” “Every time,” “After,” and “so.” These words show reasons and time order, which helps the reader follow your thoughts.
Clear cause-and-effect: You explain that the page showed an error and then you did not get a confirmation email, so you are not sure the poems were received. The link between problem and result is easy to see.
Short, readable paragraphs: The three short paragraphs make the text easy to read on a screen. Each part has one purpose, which supports coherence.
Weaknesses- Some connectors are awkward or incorrect
- Time sequence could be stronger with consistent past tense
Some connectors are awkward or incorrect: “Every time when I read” is not natural. Better: “Every time I read” or “When I read.” Small fixes like this improve the flow. Also, “After I upload…” should be “After I uploaded…” to match the time order.
Time sequence could be stronger with consistent past tense: Keeping all past actions in past tense makes the sequence very clear. For example: “After I uploaded my files and clicked the submit button, the page showed an error and became blank. I did not receive a confirmation email.” This version guides the reader step by step.
Exercises for Improvement- Linking word practice: replace or add connectors (However, Then, After that, Therefore) in your email.
- Sentence combining: join two short sentences about the error using “so,” “because,” or “after.”
- Tense sequence drill: write the problem description twice, first in present, then in past, and compare which is clearer.
Criteria Score Reports
Task Fulfillment 5/5
fully addresses the task/question and is fully developed
Task fulfillment is about how well you respond to the question you are given. TOEFL raters are looking for a response that answers the question directly, with relevant ideas that are fully developed. Fulfilling the task means answering all parts of the question completely.
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Overall Organization 4/5
is fairly well-organized, though there may be minor lack of unity in paragraphsincludes an introduction and conclusion
Overall organization is about how you organize the ideas in your essay. This includes showing that you understand how to use basic essay structure and how to organize different kinds of paragraphs around main ideas.
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Relevance & Quality of Supporting Ideas 4/5
includes mostly ideas that are relevant to the task/question
includes several good ideas that support the writer’s position
Relevance and quality of support is about your essay content or ideas. Your content should be related directly to the topic, and you should have several main ideas that support your opinion or position. These ideas should be persuasive or compelling.
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Grammatical Usage 2/5
contains several noticeable problems with form and usage that interfere with meaning
includes some variety of grammatical forms but still contains unnecessary repetition
relies primarily on simple sentence forms (simple and
Grammatical usage is about how you use English grammar, sentence structure, and the basic conventions of writing. Raters want to see that you can use what you know correctly, and that you can use a wide variety of structures to express your ideas.
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Vocabulary Usage 3/5
contains some errors in word form that may cause confusion
uses a limited range of words and phrases that is mostly appropriate
makes generally accurate word choice with only some effort by the reader
Vocabulary usage is about how you use English words. Raters are looking for writing that uses different words correctly and accurately, and that uses a wide range of words that help readers understand. On integrated writing, raters are also looking for the ability to incorporate new words from the lecture or reading into your writing.
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Connections & Coherence 4/5
generally connects ideas well, though a few connections may be unclear
includes expressions of transition, introduction, and conclusion
feels somewhat unified overall
Connections and coherence are about how you put your ideas together and link different sentences to each other. Raters want to see writing that flows naturally from idea to idea without confusing the reader.
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Question:
Antlers
Antlers
Sample Grammar Corrections
Several doubt doubts about the accuracy of the memoir writting written by the Chevalier de Seingalt are raised in the reading reading, but the professor clarify clarifies the seeming contradictions in the Chevalier's accounts to defend the memoir.
The professor explain explains that the Chevalier was rich in assets, but poor in the cash, while he lived in Switzerland and had to occasionally borrow funds while waiting for its his assets to selling. Accordingly, sell. According to the professor, being low on cash fund funds is not the same as being financially poors. poor. However, in reading the reading, someone who borrowing borrows large of amounts of money could not be wealth, wealthy, therefore the Chevalier must have lied about his wealthy life in Switzerland.
The skepticism regards regarding the reliability of the recorded conversations with Voltaire is challenging challenged by the professor as well. She explains that, due to the habit of recording each conversation with Voltaire immediately afterward, the Chevalier was able to recall those discussions in detail even after several years had passing. passed.
Finally, the professor refute refutes the idea briber that bribery was how the Chevalier got out of prison. She point points out that because even the other prisoners who had better resources were unable to successfully bribe their way out of prison prison, it was very unlikely that bribery was how he escaped. Also, she notes the existences existence of government papers recording repair work done to the Chevalier's prison cell ceiling as strong evidence that his escaping escape from the prison was accurately recorded.
The professor explain explains that the Chevalier was rich in assets, but poor in the cash, while he lived in Switzerland and had to occasionally borrow funds while waiting for its his assets to selling. Accordingly, sell. According to the professor, being low on cash fund funds is not the same as being financially poors. poor. However, in reading the reading, someone who borrowing borrows large of amounts of money could not be wealth, wealthy, therefore the Chevalier must have lied about his wealthy life in Switzerland.
The skepticism regards regarding the reliability of the recorded conversations with Voltaire is challenging challenged by the professor as well. She explains that, due to the habit of recording each conversation with Voltaire immediately afterward, the Chevalier was able to recall those discussions in detail even after several years had passing. passed.
Finally, the professor refute refutes the idea briber that bribery was how the Chevalier got out of prison. She point points out that because even the other prisoners who had better resources were unable to successfully bribe their way out of prison prison, it was very unlikely that bribery was how he escaped. Also, she notes the existences existence of government papers recording repair work done to the Chevalier's prison cell ceiling as strong evidence that his escaping escape from the prison was accurately recorded.
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Writing Template for Scenario 1: Contradiction
This scenario is the most common scenario. In this scenario, the lecture will contradict or cast doubt on the key points in the reading passage.
Writing Template:
The reading and the lecture are both about ______. Whereas the author of the reading states that _______, the lecturer suggests that ________. The lecturer casts doubt on the main points made in the reading by providing two/three reasons.
First of all, according to the reading, _____________. However, the lecturer disputes this point. He/She says that _________. Furthermore, he/she mentions that ___________
Secondly, the reading states that _______. Nevertheless, the lecturer refutes this argument. He/She argues that __________. In addition, he/she points out ________.
Finally, the reading claims that _________. On the other hand, the lecturer believe that _____. He/She thinks that _______. Moreover, he/she feels that ________
In conclusion, although the reading and the lecture are both about _______, the two/three main points made in the reading are effectively challenged by the lecturer.
First of all, according to the reading, _____________. However, the lecturer disputes this point. He/She says that _________. Furthermore, he/she mentions that ___________
Secondly, the reading states that _______. Nevertheless, the lecturer refutes this argument. He/She argues that __________. In addition, he/she points out ________.
Finally, the reading claims that _________. On the other hand, the lecturer believe that _____. He/She thinks that _______. Moreover, he/she feels that ________
In conclusion, although the reading and the lecture are both about _______, the two/three main points made in the reading are effectively challenged by the lecturer.
Writing Template for Scenario 2: Supporting with examples
Note: This scenario rarely appears in a TOEFL Test, but still necessary to learn.
In this scenario, the main points of the lecture are examples that support the key points in the reading passage.
The reading and the lecture are both about _____________.
The reading states that ____________. The lecture builds upon those same ideas to give a more comprehensive picture with two/three examples.
First of all, according to the reading, _________. Supporting this idea, the lecturer explains that _________. Furthermore, he/she mentions that __________.
Secondly, the reading states that_______. The lecturer then goes on to explain that ________. In addition, he/she points out ________.
Finally, the reading claims that _______. In support of this idea, the lecturer brings up the point that ________. (Optional) Moreover, he/she feels that _________.
In conclusion, although the reading and the lecture both discuss __________, the two/three main points made in the reading are effectively supported by the lecturer.
First of all, according to the reading, _________. Supporting this idea, the lecturer explains that _________. Furthermore, he/she mentions that __________.
Secondly, the reading states that_______. The lecturer then goes on to explain that ________. In addition, he/she points out ________.
Finally, the reading claims that _______. In support of this idea, the lecturer brings up the point that ________. (Optional) Moreover, he/she feels that _________.
In conclusion, although the reading and the lecture both discuss __________, the two/three main points made in the reading are effectively supported by the lecturer.
Master TOEFL Integrated Writing Task
Step 1: Read the passage
The passage is important in giving you general background information of the topic. Read the passage carefully and make sure you understand it well. Take notes of the main ideas of the passage but do not go into too many details. Even though there will be a three minute timer for you to read the passage, the passage is actually displayed while you are writing your essay. Your goal while reading the passage the first time should be to understand the main points in each paragraph.
Step 2: Take notes during the lectureNeedless to say, you need to take careful notes during the lecture. Unlike the passage, you will not have a chance to listen to the lecture again, so make sure you take careful notes of either the contrast between the passage and the audio or the similarities. The lecture will provide wither counter examples and disagreements or will provide examples to further prove the passage correct. Every main point from the passage is discussed again in the lecture, but with a different angle and attitude. For example, if the lecture is disagreeing with the reading and the reading says "teamwork allows individuals to respond quicker to their assignments", then the lecture might say "teamwork takes away the opportunities for hard working, talented individuals to be recognized".
Step 3: Organize your responseThere are many ways to organize an essay, but there are still a few good rules you can follow. The essay should have three sections: introduction, body, and conclusion. See the "TEACHING" tab in Independent Writing for an overview of the basic essay format.
1)
Introduction
Write a short and concise introduction for your essay. This introduction should include an explanation of your topic, and how the article and the professor
either agree or disagree with each other about the topic. Keep this introduction short. Do not go into details of the reasons. You will only need to introduce the topic briefly, so the reader knows what to expect in the body section.
2)
Body
This section should include 2 to 3 paragraphs, each one with the main point that is mentioned in the reading. So each paragraph should start with a
sentence that introduces the point to be discussed in the paragraph.
Use the specific examples from the article and lectures. Use the same paragraph structure for all the paragraphs in the body section. Remember to start a
new line for every paragraph. Don't clump all the paragraph together as a big block, and also do not break a paragraph into many small paragraphs. Each
topic should be contained in one paragraph only. Do not copy the article or the lecture into your essay. This is your essay so all the information
should be conveyed in your own words. Paraphrase as much as you can. Use a variety of words and sentence structures to avoid repetition in your essay, as
well.
3)
Conclusion
Write a short conclusion to sum up the whole essay. This conclusion can be considered a paraphrased version of the introduction. Restate the list of the
main points and how the article and the professor either agreed or disagreed. Because this is the last section of the essay, many people tend to run out
of time do not write a conclusion. First of all, running out of time can be avoided with proper organization and following our process. Secondly, forgetting to write a conclusion is a big mistake that you should avoid. Even if there is only one sentence in the conclusion,
you still need to have one. It is essential for an essay to have three sections. Missing one section will make the essay incomplete, and that will cost you
some points.
You should time yourself so that you have about 5 minutes left to review your essay. Fix typos, check for inconsistencies of the tenses of the verbs, the plurality of the subjects and verbs, and add transition words wherever you see fit. Having good transitions will gain you some extra points. Make sure the essay flows in a logical order.
Read a short passage
03:00
Endotherms are animals that maintain a constant body temperature no matter what the external temperature is. Humans are an example of an endotherm because they maintain a constant internal temperature of 37°C independent of external temperatures. Since modern reptiles are not endotherms, it is assum...
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Get a writing review
Sample Writing Review
Score Summary
4.5 / 6
AI Review
Task Fulfillment
5/5
Overall Organization
4/5
Relevance & Quality of Supporting Ideas
4/5
Grammatical Usage
2/5
Vocabulary Usage
3/5
Connections & Coherence
4/5
Grammar Corrections & Feedback
Correction Legend
Detailed Feedback
Task Fulfillment
Strengths
Overall Organization
Strengths
Relevance & Quality of Supporting Ideas
Strengths
Grammatical Usage
Strengths
Vocabulary Usage
Strengths
Connections & Coherence
Strengths
Corrections in red
Academic language suggestion in blue
General comments in green
Academic language suggestion in blue
General comments in green
Detailed Feedback
Essay Grammar Corrections & Improvements
I hope you are fine. My name is Philip and I am one of your reader. readers. I really like your poetry magazine very much because the poems are very deep and emotional. Every time when I read the magazine, I feel inspired and peaceful. I also like that you give a chance for to new writers to share their works. It make makes me more confidence confident to send my poems.
Last week, I tried to submit two of my poems by through the online submission form on your website. After I upload uploaded my files and click clicked the submit button, the page suddenly show showed an error and become became blank. I did not receive any confirmation email, so I am not sure if my poems was were received or not.
Could you please tell me about the status of my submissions? I worry that maybe they did not go through.
Last week, I tried to submit two of my poems by through the online submission form on your website. After I upload uploaded my files and click clicked the submit button, the page suddenly show showed an error and become became blank. I did not receive any confirmation email, so I am not sure if my poems was were received or not.
Could you please tell me about the status of my submissions? I worry that maybe they did not go through.
Task Fulfillment
Strengths
- Clear purpose and request
- Good context as a reader and supporter
- Polite tone and direct question
- Key details about the problem
Clear purpose and request: Your email explains the reason for writing in a simple way. You say there was an error when you tried to submit poems and you want to know the status. The sentence “Could you please tell me about the status of my submissions?” shows a direct and clear request. This matches the goal of the email very well.
Good context as a reader and supporter: You introduce yourself as “one of your reader” and explain that you like the magazine. This context helps the staff understand who you are and why you care. Your praise of the magazine shows a positive relationship and gives a friendly start.
Polite tone and direct question: Your tone is respectful and kind. You use “I hope you are fine” and “Could you please…,” which are polite phrases. This makes your request feel friendly and professional, which is helpful in emails.
Key details about the problem: You include useful information: you submitted “two of my poems,” you used “the online submission form,” the page “show error and become blank,” and you “did not receive any confirmation email.” These details help the staff understand the problem and check the system.
Weaknesses no weaknesses were found.Overall Organization
Strengths
- Clear paragraph structure
- Logical flow from praise to problem to request
- Focused sentences in each part
- Concise length without extra ideas
Clear paragraph structure: Your email has three short paragraphs. The first gives background and praise. The second explains the problem. The third asks a question. This structure is easy to follow and helps the reader move step by step.
Logical flow from praise to problem to request: You begin with positive comments, then describe what went wrong, and finally make a request. This order makes sense and guides the reader. The staff can understand your situation quickly and see what action you want.
Focused sentences in each part: Each paragraph keeps one main idea. The first is about being a reader and feeling inspired. The second is about the submission error and no confirmation. The third is your request for the status. This focus improves clarity.
Concise length without extra ideas: You do not include unrelated stories or long explanations. The message is short and clear, so it respects the reader’s time.
Weaknesses- Transitions between parts could be smoother
- Ending could include a brief closing line for flow
Transitions between parts could be smoother: The move from praise to the problem is sudden. A short link like “However” or “Recently, I had an issue” before the second paragraph would make the change softer. For example: “However, last week I had a problem with the online form.” This small change improves the reading flow.
Ending could include a brief closing line for flow: After your question, you can add one short sentence to close smoothly, such as “Thank you for your help.” This does not add new content, but it gives a polite ending and better balance to the message.
Exercises for Improvement- Write the same email adding one transition word at the start of paragraph two and a short closing line at the end.
- Make a simple outline (Background → Problem → Request) and check each sentence fits its part.
- Practice writing three versions of endings: gratitude, availability, and expectation (e.g., “Thank you…,” “I am available…,” “I look forward to…”).
Relevance & Quality of Supporting Ideas
Strengths
- All details focus on the submission issue
- Specific information about actions and results
- Clear reason for confusion (no confirmation email)
- Polite and relevant request for status
All details focus on the submission issue: You do not include unrelated information. Your message stays on the topic of sending poems and a website error. This focus keeps the email easy to understand and helpful for the staff.
Specific information about actions and results: You say you “tried to submit two of my poems,” used “the online submission form,” clicked the submit button, and then the page “show error and become blank.” These steps show what you did and what happened, which can help the team check their system.
Clear reason for confusion (no confirmation email): You explain you did not receive a confirmation email. This is a strong supporting detail because it shows why you are not sure the poems were received. It is a common sign of a failed submission, so it makes your concern reasonable.
Polite and relevant request for status: The question you ask is exactly connected to the details you shared. It asks for the result of your submission, which matches the problem described.
Weaknesses- Some descriptions are not precise enough
- Sequence could be made clearer with small edits
Some descriptions are not precise enough: The phrase “show error and become blank” is a little unclear. You can make it stronger by saying “showed an error message and then the page went blank.” This gives a clear picture. Also, “submit… by the online submission form” sounds odd. “Through” or “via the online submission form” is more natural and precise.
Sequence could be made clearer with small edits: You can make the order of actions easier to follow with exact past tense verbs: “After I uploaded my files and clicked the submit button, the page showed an error and became blank. I did not receive a confirmation email.” This change keeps the timeline very clear.
Exercises for Improvement- Rewrite the problem sentence using exact past tense verbs and the phrase “error message” and “went blank.”
- Add one precise detail (for example, the day of the week) to practice making support stronger without adding new topics.
- Practice a three-step sequence explanation (Action → System response → Result for you) for two similar tech issues.
Grammatical Usage
Strengths
- Meaning is clear despite errors
- Polite question form used correctly
Meaning is clear despite errors: Even with grammar mistakes, the reader can understand your situation and your request. The main ideas are complete, and the message is not confusing.
Polite question form used correctly: “Could you please tell me about the status of my submissions?” is a correct and polite way to ask. This shows good control of modal verbs and polite forms.
Weaknesses- Subject–verb agreement and plural forms
- Verb tense consistency (use past tense for past actions)
- Articles and determiners
- Prepositions and natural structures
- Word form and collocations
Subject–verb agreement and plural forms: “one of your reader” should be “one of your readers.” “It make me more confidence” should be “It makes me more confident.” Also, “my poems was received” should be “my poems were received.” These changes fix agreement and plural issues.
Verb tense consistency (use past tense for past actions): Use past tense for completed actions: “After I uploaded my files and clicked the submit button, the page showed an error and became blank.” This is more correct than “upload / click / show / become.”
Articles and determiners: Add needed articles: “give a chance,” “the submit button,” “an error.” Articles help the reader understand which item you mean.
Prepositions and natural structures: “submit… by the online submission form” sounds odd. Better: “submit… through the online submission form” or “via the online submission form.” Natural prepositions make sentences smoother.
Word form and collocations: Use “confident” (adjective), not “confidence” (noun), in “It makes me more confident.” Also, “share their work” is more common than “share their works.”
Exercises for Improvement- Subject–verb agreement drill: write 10 sentences fixing errors like “It make” → “It makes,” “poems was” → “poems were.”
- Past tense practice: rewrite your second paragraph using only past tense verbs for each action.
- Articles worksheet: add a/an/the to 15 short noun phrases like “__ error,” “__ submit button,” “__ chance.”
- Preposition practice: choose the best option (through/via/by/with) in 12 submission sentences.
- Error correction: fix and explain five sentences from your email to build awareness.
Vocabulary Usage
Strengths
- Appropriate polite phrases
- Useful emotional and topic words
- Correct use of “submission(s)” and “confirmation email”
Appropriate polite phrases: You use polite sets like “I hope you are fine” and “Could you please…,” which are suitable for formal emails and show respect.
Useful emotional and topic words: Words such as “poetry magazine,” “deep,” “emotional,” “inspired,” and “peaceful” fit the context and help express your feelings clearly. They also show you understand the topic.
Correct use of “submission(s)” and “confirmation email”: These are the right terms for this situation. They make your request more precise and professional.
Weaknesses- Some awkward or incorrect collocations
- Repetition and weak intensifiers
- Lack of precise technical terms for the error
Some awkward or incorrect collocations: “give chance” should be “give a chance” or “offer opportunities.” “more confidence” should be “more confident.” “share their works” is better as “share their work.” Natural collocations make your English sound smoother.
Repetition and weak intensifiers: You repeat “very” in “really like… very much.” Choose one strong word: “I really enjoy your poetry magazine” or “I like your poetry magazine very much.” This avoids repetition and sounds more natural.
Lack of precise technical terms for the error: Instead of “show error and become blank,” use “showed an error message,” “went blank,” or “crashed.” These terms explain the problem more clearly and professionally.
Exercises for Improvement- Collocation matching: pair verbs and nouns (offer opportunities, submit via, receive confirmation, show an error message).
- Synonym practice: replace “really like… very much” with one stronger verb (enjoy, appreciate, value).
- Precision task: write three versions of the error sentence using “error message,” “blank page,” and “crashed.”
- Paraphrasing drill: rewrite the praise sentence in two different ways without repeating “very.”
Connections & Coherence
Strengths
- Logical sequencing of ideas
- Use of linking words
- Clear cause-and-effect
- Short, readable paragraphs
Logical sequencing of ideas: The email starts with background, moves to the problem, and ends with the request. This order helps the reader understand quickly and respond easily.
Use of linking words: You use some connectors like “because,” “Every time,” “After,” and “so.” These words show reasons and time order, which helps the reader follow your thoughts.
Clear cause-and-effect: You explain that the page showed an error and then you did not get a confirmation email, so you are not sure the poems were received. The link between problem and result is easy to see.
Short, readable paragraphs: The three short paragraphs make the text easy to read on a screen. Each part has one purpose, which supports coherence.
Weaknesses- Some connectors are awkward or incorrect
- Time sequence could be stronger with consistent past tense
Some connectors are awkward or incorrect: “Every time when I read” is not natural. Better: “Every time I read” or “When I read.” Small fixes like this improve the flow. Also, “After I upload…” should be “After I uploaded…” to match the time order.
Time sequence could be stronger with consistent past tense: Keeping all past actions in past tense makes the sequence very clear. For example: “After I uploaded my files and clicked the submit button, the page showed an error and became blank. I did not receive a confirmation email.” This version guides the reader step by step.
Exercises for Improvement- Linking word practice: replace or add connectors (However, Then, After that, Therefore) in your email.
- Sentence combining: join two short sentences about the error using “so,” “because,” or “after.”
- Tense sequence drill: write the problem description twice, first in present, then in past, and compare which is clearer.
Criteria Score Reports
Task Fulfillment 5/5
fully addresses the task/question and is fully developed
Task fulfillment is about how well you respond to the question you are given. TOEFL raters are looking for a response that answers the question directly, with relevant ideas that are fully developed. Fulfilling the task means answering all parts of the question completely.
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Overall Organization 4/5
is fairly well-organized, though there may be minor lack of unity in paragraphsincludes an introduction and conclusion
Overall organization is about how you organize the ideas in your essay. This includes showing that you understand how to use basic essay structure and how to organize different kinds of paragraphs around main ideas.
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Relevance & Quality of Supporting Ideas 4/5
includes mostly ideas that are relevant to the task/question
includes several good ideas that support the writer’s position
Relevance and quality of support is about your essay content or ideas. Your content should be related directly to the topic, and you should have several main ideas that support your opinion or position. These ideas should be persuasive or compelling.
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Grammatical Usage 2/5
contains several noticeable problems with form and usage that interfere with meaning
includes some variety of grammatical forms but still contains unnecessary repetition
relies primarily on simple sentence forms (simple and
Grammatical usage is about how you use English grammar, sentence structure, and the basic conventions of writing. Raters want to see that you can use what you know correctly, and that you can use a wide variety of structures to express your ideas.
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Vocabulary Usage 3/5
contains some errors in word form that may cause confusion
uses a limited range of words and phrases that is mostly appropriate
makes generally accurate word choice with only some effort by the reader
Vocabulary usage is about how you use English words. Raters are looking for writing that uses different words correctly and accurately, and that uses a wide range of words that help readers understand. On integrated writing, raters are also looking for the ability to incorporate new words from the lecture or reading into your writing.
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Connections & Coherence 4/5
generally connects ideas well, though a few connections may be unclear
includes expressions of transition, introduction, and conclusion
feels somewhat unified overall
Connections and coherence are about how you put your ideas together and link different sentences to each other. Raters want to see writing that flows naturally from idea to idea without confusing the reader.
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Question:
Endotherms
Endotherms
Sample Grammar Corrections
Several doubt doubts about the accuracy of the memoir writting written by the Chevalier de Seingalt are raised in the reading reading, but the professor clarify clarifies the seeming contradictions in the Chevalier's accounts to defend the memoir.
The professor explain explains that the Chevalier was rich in assets, but poor in the cash, while he lived in Switzerland and had to occasionally borrow funds while waiting for its his assets to selling. Accordingly, sell. According to the professor, being low on cash fund funds is not the same as being financially poors. poor. However, in reading the reading, someone who borrowing borrows large of amounts of money could not be wealth, wealthy, therefore the Chevalier must have lied about his wealthy life in Switzerland.
The skepticism regards regarding the reliability of the recorded conversations with Voltaire is challenging challenged by the professor as well. She explains that, due to the habit of recording each conversation with Voltaire immediately afterward, the Chevalier was able to recall those discussions in detail even after several years had passing. passed.
Finally, the professor refute refutes the idea briber that bribery was how the Chevalier got out of prison. She point points out that because even the other prisoners who had better resources were unable to successfully bribe their way out of prison prison, it was very unlikely that bribery was how he escaped. Also, she notes the existences existence of government papers recording repair work done to the Chevalier's prison cell ceiling as strong evidence that his escaping escape from the prison was accurately recorded.
The professor explain explains that the Chevalier was rich in assets, but poor in the cash, while he lived in Switzerland and had to occasionally borrow funds while waiting for its his assets to selling. Accordingly, sell. According to the professor, being low on cash fund funds is not the same as being financially poors. poor. However, in reading the reading, someone who borrowing borrows large of amounts of money could not be wealth, wealthy, therefore the Chevalier must have lied about his wealthy life in Switzerland.
The skepticism regards regarding the reliability of the recorded conversations with Voltaire is challenging challenged by the professor as well. She explains that, due to the habit of recording each conversation with Voltaire immediately afterward, the Chevalier was able to recall those discussions in detail even after several years had passing. passed.
Finally, the professor refute refutes the idea briber that bribery was how the Chevalier got out of prison. She point points out that because even the other prisoners who had better resources were unable to successfully bribe their way out of prison prison, it was very unlikely that bribery was how he escaped. Also, she notes the existences existence of government papers recording repair work done to the Chevalier's prison cell ceiling as strong evidence that his escaping escape from the prison was accurately recorded.
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writing LessonsCompleted: 0 / 77
Writing Template for Scenario 1: Contradiction
This scenario is the most common scenario. In this scenario, the lecture will contradict or cast doubt on the key points in the reading passage.
Writing Template:
The reading and the lecture are both about ______. Whereas the author of the reading states that _______, the lecturer suggests that ________. The lecturer casts doubt on the main points made in the reading by providing two/three reasons.
First of all, according to the reading, _____________. However, the lecturer disputes this point. He/She says that _________. Furthermore, he/she mentions that ___________
Secondly, the reading states that _______. Nevertheless, the lecturer refutes this argument. He/She argues that __________. In addition, he/she points out ________.
Finally, the reading claims that _________. On the other hand, the lecturer believe that _____. He/She thinks that _______. Moreover, he/she feels that ________
In conclusion, although the reading and the lecture are both about _______, the two/three main points made in the reading are effectively challenged by the lecturer.
First of all, according to the reading, _____________. However, the lecturer disputes this point. He/She says that _________. Furthermore, he/she mentions that ___________
Secondly, the reading states that _______. Nevertheless, the lecturer refutes this argument. He/She argues that __________. In addition, he/she points out ________.
Finally, the reading claims that _________. On the other hand, the lecturer believe that _____. He/She thinks that _______. Moreover, he/she feels that ________
In conclusion, although the reading and the lecture are both about _______, the two/three main points made in the reading are effectively challenged by the lecturer.
Writing Template for Scenario 2: Supporting with examples
Note: This scenario rarely appears in a TOEFL Test, but still necessary to learn.
In this scenario, the main points of the lecture are examples that support the key points in the reading passage.
The reading and the lecture are both about _____________.
The reading states that ____________. The lecture builds upon those same ideas to give a more comprehensive picture with two/three examples.
First of all, according to the reading, _________. Supporting this idea, the lecturer explains that _________. Furthermore, he/she mentions that __________.
Secondly, the reading states that_______. The lecturer then goes on to explain that ________. In addition, he/she points out ________.
Finally, the reading claims that _______. In support of this idea, the lecturer brings up the point that ________. (Optional) Moreover, he/she feels that _________.
In conclusion, although the reading and the lecture both discuss __________, the two/three main points made in the reading are effectively supported by the lecturer.
First of all, according to the reading, _________. Supporting this idea, the lecturer explains that _________. Furthermore, he/she mentions that __________.
Secondly, the reading states that_______. The lecturer then goes on to explain that ________. In addition, he/she points out ________.
Finally, the reading claims that _______. In support of this idea, the lecturer brings up the point that ________. (Optional) Moreover, he/she feels that _________.
In conclusion, although the reading and the lecture both discuss __________, the two/three main points made in the reading are effectively supported by the lecturer.
Master TOEFL Integrated Writing Task
Step 1: Read the passage
The passage is important in giving you general background information of the topic. Read the passage carefully and make sure you understand it well. Take notes of the main ideas of the passage but do not go into too many details. Even though there will be a three minute timer for you to read the passage, the passage is actually displayed while you are writing your essay. Your goal while reading the passage the first time should be to understand the main points in each paragraph.
Step 2: Take notes during the lectureNeedless to say, you need to take careful notes during the lecture. Unlike the passage, you will not have a chance to listen to the lecture again, so make sure you take careful notes of either the contrast between the passage and the audio or the similarities. The lecture will provide wither counter examples and disagreements or will provide examples to further prove the passage correct. Every main point from the passage is discussed again in the lecture, but with a different angle and attitude. For example, if the lecture is disagreeing with the reading and the reading says "teamwork allows individuals to respond quicker to their assignments", then the lecture might say "teamwork takes away the opportunities for hard working, talented individuals to be recognized".
Step 3: Organize your responseThere are many ways to organize an essay, but there are still a few good rules you can follow. The essay should have three sections: introduction, body, and conclusion. See the "TEACHING" tab in Independent Writing for an overview of the basic essay format.
1)
Introduction
Write a short and concise introduction for your essay. This introduction should include an explanation of your topic, and how the article and the professor
either agree or disagree with each other about the topic. Keep this introduction short. Do not go into details of the reasons. You will only need to introduce the topic briefly, so the reader knows what to expect in the body section.
2)
Body
This section should include 2 to 3 paragraphs, each one with the main point that is mentioned in the reading. So each paragraph should start with a
sentence that introduces the point to be discussed in the paragraph.
Use the specific examples from the article and lectures. Use the same paragraph structure for all the paragraphs in the body section. Remember to start a
new line for every paragraph. Don't clump all the paragraph together as a big block, and also do not break a paragraph into many small paragraphs. Each
topic should be contained in one paragraph only. Do not copy the article or the lecture into your essay. This is your essay so all the information
should be conveyed in your own words. Paraphrase as much as you can. Use a variety of words and sentence structures to avoid repetition in your essay, as
well.
3)
Conclusion
Write a short conclusion to sum up the whole essay. This conclusion can be considered a paraphrased version of the introduction. Restate the list of the
main points and how the article and the professor either agreed or disagreed. Because this is the last section of the essay, many people tend to run out
of time do not write a conclusion. First of all, running out of time can be avoided with proper organization and following our process. Secondly, forgetting to write a conclusion is a big mistake that you should avoid. Even if there is only one sentence in the conclusion,
you still need to have one. It is essential for an essay to have three sections. Missing one section will make the essay incomplete, and that will cost you
some points.
You should time yourself so that you have about 5 minutes left to review your essay. Fix typos, check for inconsistencies of the tenses of the verbs, the plurality of the subjects and verbs, and add transition words wherever you see fit. Having good transitions will gain you some extra points. Make sure the essay flows in a logical order.
[1] Frogs are known as one of the most diverse scientific order of vertebrate species in the world. Nevertheless, they are often overlooked by humans. In fact, these carnivorous amphibians date back in fossil record to the early Triassic period in Madagascar. However, molecular dating suggests they ...
[1] Frogs are known as one of the most diverse scientific order of vertebrate species in the world. Nevertheless, they are often overlooked by humans. In fact, these carnivorous amphibians date back in fossil record to the early Triassic period in Madagascar. However, molecular dating suggests they ...
TOEFL reading LessonsCompleted: 0 / 74
Tips to improve your reading speed
To get a high score on the TOEFL reading section, you need to have a fast reading speed.
To have a fast reading speed, you need to improve your vocabulary and practice dissecting sentences. One strategy to dissect a
sentence is to look for the subject and verb of the sentence. Finding the subject and verb will help you better understand the main idea of said sentence. Keep in mind, a common feature of a TOEFL reading passage is to join strings of ideas to form long compound sentences.
This produces large chunks that students have a hard time absorbing. Do not get overwhelmed by its length, just look for the subject and verb,
the rest of the ideas will flow.
Keep in mind, having a slow reading speed makes skimming or scanning a reading passage more difficult. The process of quickly skimming through a reading passage for specific keywords or main ideas is a requirement for you to employ successful reading strategies to improve your TOEFL reading score. In other words, skimming is a critical skill to ensure you complete all questions in the allotted time frame.
Keep in mind, having a slow reading speed makes skimming or scanning a reading passage more difficult. The process of quickly skimming through a reading passage for specific keywords or main ideas is a requirement for you to employ successful reading strategies to improve your TOEFL reading score. In other words, skimming is a critical skill to ensure you complete all questions in the allotted time frame.
TOEFL Reading Strategies
Once you can read and comprehend a passage with a rate of, at least, 220 words per minute, you'll be ready to start implementing our strategies.
All too often, students spend too much time reading the passages and not enough time answering the questions. Here is a step by step guide for tackling the reading section.
1.Skim through the entire reading passage and get a rough idea of what the reading passage is about.
2.Read the question and start scanning the paragraph for related words or keywords from the question. (Most questions will tell you which paragraph the question is referring too.)
3.Quickly read the sentence with the related keywords and the sentences surrounding it to find the answer.
4.Can't find the answer? Skip this question and come back later. There are at least 3 reading passages each with 14 questions. Complete all the questions that do not require you to thoroughly read the passages. Once done, go back to each skipped question and now read the passage carefully keeping note how much time and questions you have left.
2.Read the question and start scanning the paragraph for related words or keywords from the question. (Most questions will tell you which paragraph the question is referring too.)
3.Quickly read the sentence with the related keywords and the sentences surrounding it to find the answer.
4.Can't find the answer? Skip this question and come back later. There are at least 3 reading passages each with 14 questions. Complete all the questions that do not require you to thoroughly read the passages. Once done, go back to each skipped question and now read the passage carefully keeping note how much time and questions you have left.
TOEFL Reading Question Types
The TOEFL reading test contains 10 different question types:
| Vocabulary | Lesson: Vocabulary Question |
| Reference | Lesson: Reference Question |
| Essential Information | Lesson: Essential Information Question |
| Inference | Lesson: Inference Question |
| Sentence Insertion | Lesson: Sentence Insertion Question |
| Purpose | Lesson: Purpose Question |
| Detail | Lesson: Detail Question |
| Negative Factual | Lesson: Negative Factual Question |
| Complete the Summary | Lesson: Complete the Summary Question |
| Complete the Table | Lesson: Complete the Table Question |
Score Summary 
0 / 1
Reference
0/1
Rhetorical Purpose
0/1
Complete the Words
0/1
Gist purpose
0/1
Organization
0/1
Select in Passage
0/1
Inference
0/1
Negative Factual Information
0/1
Detail
0/1
Complete the Summary
0/1
Complete the Table
0/1
Essential Information
0/1
Vocabulary
0/1
Insert a Sentence
0/1
Hello! :)
Submit your reading answers to auto generate this report.
Submit your reading answers to auto generate this report.
[1] The Arctic north is known as one of the least hospitable places on Earth. When one thinks of tourist destinations, few contemplate a trip to the frigid northern latitudes. Despite the cold barriers, the polar regions are homes to many creatures, including polar bears. These bears are well known ...
[1] The Arctic north is known as one of the least hospitable places on Earth. When one thinks of tourist destinations, few contemplate a trip to the frigid northern latitudes. Despite the cold barriers, the polar regions are homes to many creatures, including polar bears. These bears are well known ...
TOEFL reading LessonsCompleted: 0 / 74
Tips to improve your reading speed
To get a high score on the TOEFL reading section, you need to have a fast reading speed.
To have a fast reading speed, you need to improve your vocabulary and practice dissecting sentences. One strategy to dissect a
sentence is to look for the subject and verb of the sentence. Finding the subject and verb will help you better understand the main idea of said sentence. Keep in mind, a common feature of a TOEFL reading passage is to join strings of ideas to form long compound sentences.
This produces large chunks that students have a hard time absorbing. Do not get overwhelmed by its length, just look for the subject and verb,
the rest of the ideas will flow.
Keep in mind, having a slow reading speed makes skimming or scanning a reading passage more difficult. The process of quickly skimming through a reading passage for specific keywords or main ideas is a requirement for you to employ successful reading strategies to improve your TOEFL reading score. In other words, skimming is a critical skill to ensure you complete all questions in the allotted time frame.
Keep in mind, having a slow reading speed makes skimming or scanning a reading passage more difficult. The process of quickly skimming through a reading passage for specific keywords or main ideas is a requirement for you to employ successful reading strategies to improve your TOEFL reading score. In other words, skimming is a critical skill to ensure you complete all questions in the allotted time frame.
TOEFL Reading Strategies
Once you can read and comprehend a passage with a rate of, at least, 220 words per minute, you'll be ready to start implementing our strategies.
All too often, students spend too much time reading the passages and not enough time answering the questions. Here is a step by step guide for tackling the reading section.
1.Skim through the entire reading passage and get a rough idea of what the reading passage is about.
2.Read the question and start scanning the paragraph for related words or keywords from the question. (Most questions will tell you which paragraph the question is referring too.)
3.Quickly read the sentence with the related keywords and the sentences surrounding it to find the answer.
4.Can't find the answer? Skip this question and come back later. There are at least 3 reading passages each with 14 questions. Complete all the questions that do not require you to thoroughly read the passages. Once done, go back to each skipped question and now read the passage carefully keeping note how much time and questions you have left.
2.Read the question and start scanning the paragraph for related words or keywords from the question. (Most questions will tell you which paragraph the question is referring too.)
3.Quickly read the sentence with the related keywords and the sentences surrounding it to find the answer.
4.Can't find the answer? Skip this question and come back later. There are at least 3 reading passages each with 14 questions. Complete all the questions that do not require you to thoroughly read the passages. Once done, go back to each skipped question and now read the passage carefully keeping note how much time and questions you have left.
TOEFL Reading Question Types
The TOEFL reading test contains 10 different question types:
| Vocabulary | Lesson: Vocabulary Question |
| Reference | Lesson: Reference Question |
| Essential Information | Lesson: Essential Information Question |
| Inference | Lesson: Inference Question |
| Sentence Insertion | Lesson: Sentence Insertion Question |
| Purpose | Lesson: Purpose Question |
| Detail | Lesson: Detail Question |
| Negative Factual | Lesson: Negative Factual Question |
| Complete the Summary | Lesson: Complete the Summary Question |
| Complete the Table | Lesson: Complete the Table Question |
Score Summary
0 / 1
Reference
0/1
Rhetorical Purpose
0/1
Complete the Words
0/1
Gist purpose
0/1
Organization
0/1
Select in Passage
0/1
Inference
0/1
Negative Factual Information
0/1
Detail
0/1
Complete the Summary
0/1
Complete the Table
0/1
Essential Information
0/1
Vocabulary
0/1
Insert a Sentence
0/1
Hello! :)
Submit your reading answers to auto generate this report.
Submit your reading answers to auto generate this report.
[1] Charles Darwin's Theory of Evolution is known as one of the most important and controversial scientific theories ever published. Darwin was an English scientist in the 19th century best known for his book “On the Origin of Species.” In his book, Darwin postulated different species shared characteristics of common ancestors, that they branched off from common ancestors as they evolved, and that new traits and characteristics were a result of natural selection. The theory is based on the assumptions that life developed from non-life and progressed and evolved in an indirect manner. Therefore, the Theory of Evolution, while controversial, has shaped and influenced the modern scientific world's thinking on the development of life itself. Darwin was born February 12, 1809 in England. Although initially entering into medicine, Darwin chose to pursue his interest in natural science and embarked on a five-year journey aboard the H.M.S. Beagle, a British sloop belonging to the Royal Navy. Because of his experience aboard the Beagle, he laid the foundation for his Theory of Evolution while also establishing himself within the scientific community. Specifically, Darwin's keen observation of the fossils and wildlife he saw during his time on the Beagle served as the basis for the cornerstone of his theory: natural selection.
[2] Natural selection contributes to the basis of Darwin's Theory of Evolution. One of the core tenets of Darwin's theory is that more offspring are always produced for a species than can possibly survive. Yet, no two offspring are perfectly alike. As a result, through random mutation and genetic drift, over time offspring develop new traits and characteristics. Over time beneficial traits and characteristics that promote survival will be kept in the gene pool while those that harm survival will be selected against. Therefore, this natural selection ensures that a species gradually improves itself over an extended duration of time. On the other hand, as a species continues to 'improve' itself, it branches out to create entirely new species that are no longer capable of reproducing together.
[3] Through natural selection, organisms could branch off of each other and evolve to the point where they no longer belong to the same species. Consequently, simple organisms evolve into more complex and different organisms as species break away from one another. Natural selection parallels selective breeding employed by humans on domesticated animals for centuries. Namely, horse breeders will ensure that horses with particular characteristics, such as speed and endurance, are allowed to produce offspring while horses that do not share those above-average traits will not. Therefore, over several generations, the new offspring will already be pre-disposed towards being excellent racing horses.
[4] Darwin's theory is that 'selective breeding' occurs in nature as 'natural selection' is the engine behind evolution. Thus, the theory provides an excellent basis for understanding how organisms change over time. Nevertheless, it is just a theory and elusively difficult to prove. One of the major holes in Darwin's theory revolves around “irreducibly complex systems.” An irreducibly complex system is known as a system where many different parts must all operate together. As a result, in the absence of one, the system as a whole collapses. Consequently, as modern technology improves, science can identify these “irreducibly complex systems” even at microscopic levels. These complex systems, if so inter-reliant, would be resistant to Darwin's supposition of how evolution occurs. As Darwin himself admitted, “To suppose that the eye with all its inimitable contrivance for adjusting the focus for different distances, for admitting different amounts of light, and for the correction of spherical and chromatic aberration, could have been formed by natural selection, seems, I free confess, absurd in the highest degree".
[5] In conclusion, “On the Origin of Species” is known as one of the most consequential books ever published. Darwin's Theory of Evolution remains, to this day, a lightning rod for controversy. The theory can be observed repeatedly, but never proven, and there are a plethora of instances that cast doubt on the processes of natural selection and evolution. Darwin's conclusions were a result of keen observation and training as a naturalist. Despite the controversy that swirls around his theory, Darwin remains one of the most influential scientists and naturalists ever born due to his Theory of Evolution.
[1] Charles Darwin's Theory of Evolution is known as one of the most important and controversial scientific theories ever published. Darwin was an English scientist in the 19th century best known for his book “On the Origin of Species.” In his book, Darwin postulated different species shared characteristics of common ancestors, that they branched off from common ancestors as they evolved, and that new traits and characteristics were a result of natural selection. The theory is based on the assumptions that life developed from non-life and progressed and evolved in an indirect manner. Therefore, the Theory of Evolution, while controversial, has shaped and influenced the modern scientific world's thinking on the development of life itself. Darwin was born February 12, 1809 in England. Although initially entering into medicine, Darwin chose to pursue his interest in natural science and embarked on a five-year journey aboard the H.M.S. Beagle, a British sloop belonging to the Royal Navy. Because of his experience aboard the Beagle, he laid the foundation for his Theory of Evolution while also establishing himself within the scientific community. Specifically, Darwin's keen observation of the fossils and wildlife he saw during his time on the Beagle served as the basis for the cornerstone of his theory: natural selection.
[2] Natural selection contributes to the basis of Darwin's Theory of Evolution. One of the core tenets of Darwin's theory is that more offspring are always produced for a species than can possibly survive. Yet, no two offspring are perfectly alike. As a result, through random mutation and genetic drift, over time offspring develop new traits and characteristics. Over time beneficial traits and characteristics that promote survival will be kept in the gene pool while those that harm survival will be selected against. Therefore, this natural selection ensures that a species gradually improves itself over an extended duration of time. On the other hand, as a species continues to 'improve' itself, it branches out to create entirely new species that are no longer capable of reproducing together.
[3] Through natural selection, organisms could branch off of each other and evolve to the point where they no longer belong to the same species. Consequently, simple organisms evolve into more complex and different organisms as species break away from one another. Natural selection parallels selective breeding employed by humans on domesticated animals for centuries. Namely, horse breeders will ensure that horses with particular characteristics, such as speed and endurance, are allowed to produce offspring while horses that do not share those above-average traits will not. Therefore, over several generations, the new offspring will already be pre-disposed towards being excellent racing horses.
[4] Darwin's theory is that 'selective breeding' occurs in nature as 'natural selection' is the engine behind evolution. Thus, the theory provides an excellent basis for understanding how organisms change over time. Nevertheless, it is just a theory and elusively difficult to prove. One of the major holes in Darwin's theory revolves around “irreducibly complex systems.” An irreducibly complex system is known as a system where many different parts must all operate together. As a result, in the absence of one, the system as a whole collapses. Consequently, as modern technology improves, science can identify these “irreducibly complex systems” even at microscopic levels. These complex systems, if so inter-reliant, would be resistant to Darwin's supposition of how evolution occurs. As Darwin himself admitted, “To suppose that the eye with all its inimitable contrivance for adjusting the focus for different distances, for admitting different amounts of light, and for the correction of spherical and chromatic aberration, could have been formed by natural selection, seems, I free confess, absurd in the highest degree".
[5] In conclusion, “On the Origin of Species” is known as one of the most consequential books ever published. Darwin's Theory of Evolution remains, to this day, a lightning rod for controversy. The theory can be observed repeatedly, but never proven, and there are a plethora of instances that cast doubt on the processes of natural selection and evolution. Darwin's conclusions were a result of keen observation and training as a naturalist. Despite the controversy that swirls around his theory, Darwin remains one of the most influential scientists and naturalists ever born due to his Theory of Evolution.
TOEFL reading LessonsCompleted: 0 / 74
Tips to improve your reading speed
To get a high score on the TOEFL reading section, you need to have a fast reading speed.
To have a fast reading speed, you need to improve your vocabulary and practice dissecting sentences. One strategy to dissect a
sentence is to look for the subject and verb of the sentence. Finding the subject and verb will help you better understand the main idea of said sentence. Keep in mind, a common feature of a TOEFL reading passage is to join strings of ideas to form long compound sentences.
This produces large chunks that students have a hard time absorbing. Do not get overwhelmed by its length, just look for the subject and verb,
the rest of the ideas will flow.
Keep in mind, having a slow reading speed makes skimming or scanning a reading passage more difficult. The process of quickly skimming through a reading passage for specific keywords or main ideas is a requirement for you to employ successful reading strategies to improve your TOEFL reading score. In other words, skimming is a critical skill to ensure you complete all questions in the allotted time frame.
Keep in mind, having a slow reading speed makes skimming or scanning a reading passage more difficult. The process of quickly skimming through a reading passage for specific keywords or main ideas is a requirement for you to employ successful reading strategies to improve your TOEFL reading score. In other words, skimming is a critical skill to ensure you complete all questions in the allotted time frame.
TOEFL Reading Strategies
Once you can read and comprehend a passage with a rate of, at least, 220 words per minute, you'll be ready to start implementing our strategies.
All too often, students spend too much time reading the passages and not enough time answering the questions. Here is a step by step guide for tackling the reading section.
1.Skim through the entire reading passage and get a rough idea of what the reading passage is about.
2.Read the question and start scanning the paragraph for related words or keywords from the question. (Most questions will tell you which paragraph the question is referring too.)
3.Quickly read the sentence with the related keywords and the sentences surrounding it to find the answer.
4.Can't find the answer? Skip this question and come back later. There are at least 3 reading passages each with 14 questions. Complete all the questions that do not require you to thoroughly read the passages. Once done, go back to each skipped question and now read the passage carefully keeping note how much time and questions you have left.
2.Read the question and start scanning the paragraph for related words or keywords from the question. (Most questions will tell you which paragraph the question is referring too.)
3.Quickly read the sentence with the related keywords and the sentences surrounding it to find the answer.
4.Can't find the answer? Skip this question and come back later. There are at least 3 reading passages each with 14 questions. Complete all the questions that do not require you to thoroughly read the passages. Once done, go back to each skipped question and now read the passage carefully keeping note how much time and questions you have left.
TOEFL Reading Question Types
The TOEFL reading test contains 10 different question types:
| Vocabulary | Lesson: Vocabulary Question |
| Reference | Lesson: Reference Question |
| Essential Information | Lesson: Essential Information Question |
| Inference | Lesson: Inference Question |
| Sentence Insertion | Lesson: Sentence Insertion Question |
| Purpose | Lesson: Purpose Question |
| Detail | Lesson: Detail Question |
| Negative Factual | Lesson: Negative Factual Question |
| Complete the Summary | Lesson: Complete the Summary Question |
| Complete the Table | Lesson: Complete the Table Question |
Score Summary
0 / 1
Reference
0/1
Rhetorical Purpose
0/1
Complete the Words
0/1
Gist purpose
0/1
Organization
0/1
Select in Passage
0/1
Inference
0/1
Negative Factual Information
0/1
Detail
0/1
Complete the Summary
0/1
Complete the Table
0/1
Essential Information
0/1
Vocabulary
0/1
Insert a Sentence
0/1
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Score Summary
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Listening Tips
Listen for the main idea
In most cases, the first question after each lecture is a main idea question also known as a gist question. At the beginning of a listening lecture, the professor usually mentions what the main topic of the lecture will be about, but sometimes the topic might be branched into something more specific. Please note the topic can change, so always be prepared to note down any new topics.
Listen to the speaker's tone of voice
Sometimes you'll be asked questions regarding the speaker's attitude or opinion. To answer these questions correctly, tone of voice matters. For example, does the speaker sound excited, confused, sad...etc?
Listen to how ideas are connected throughout the lecture
When listening to a lecture, make note of the way the ideas in the lecture are connected. In other words, how the professor organized the lecture. When you encounter a question asking you how the lecture is organized, you can refer back to your notes. Some of the main relationships between ideas include cause/effect, compare/contrast, and steps in a process.
Listen for key points not specific details
TOEFL listening questions will not test you on small details. For example, you won't see questions that are about a specific year, name, or location. Instead, questions will test your understanding of key points mentioned in the lecture.
Listen for signal words that indicate different parts of the lecture
To help you capture key points in the lecture, you need to learn to listen for signal words or transition words. These words are like the road signs that tell you what is coming next. Signal words can tell you the beginning or the end of a topic. They can also help you move through the middle of the lecture by introducing topics.
Pay attention to the following transition words which can help you capture the main ideas and examples:
In most cases, the first question after each lecture is a main idea question also known as a gist question. At the beginning of a listening lecture, the professor usually mentions what the main topic of the lecture will be about, but sometimes the topic might be branched into something more specific. Please note the topic can change, so always be prepared to note down any new topics.
Listen to the speaker's tone of voice
Sometimes you'll be asked questions regarding the speaker's attitude or opinion. To answer these questions correctly, tone of voice matters. For example, does the speaker sound excited, confused, sad...etc?
Listen to how ideas are connected throughout the lecture
When listening to a lecture, make note of the way the ideas in the lecture are connected. In other words, how the professor organized the lecture. When you encounter a question asking you how the lecture is organized, you can refer back to your notes. Some of the main relationships between ideas include cause/effect, compare/contrast, and steps in a process.
Listen for key points not specific details
TOEFL listening questions will not test you on small details. For example, you won't see questions that are about a specific year, name, or location. Instead, questions will test your understanding of key points mentioned in the lecture.
Listen for signal words that indicate different parts of the lecture
To help you capture key points in the lecture, you need to learn to listen for signal words or transition words. These words are like the road signs that tell you what is coming next. Signal words can tell you the beginning or the end of a topic. They can also help you move through the middle of the lecture by introducing topics.
| Signal words |
| "Okay", "Well", "Now", "But", and "So" 1. "Okay" and "Now" are usually used to transition into a different topic or a different key point. 2. "Well" is usually used before answering a question. 3. "But" and "So" are usually followed by a key point. |
| Examples |
|
All right folks, let’s continue our discussion of alternative energy sources and move on to what’s probably the most well-known alternative energy source--- solar energy. The sun basically provides earth with virtually unlimited source of energy every day, but the problem has always been how do we tap this source of energy. Can anyone think of why it’s so difficult to make use of solar energy? OK. Another ancient Greek philosopher we need to discuss is Aristotle—Aristotle’s ethical theory. What Aristotle’s ethical theory is all about is this: he’s trying to show you how to be happy—what true happiness is. Now, why is he interested in human happiness? It’s not just because it’s something that all people want to aim for. It’s more than that. But to get there we need to first make a very important distinction. Let me introduce a couple of technical terms: extrinsic value and intrinsic value. All right, so far we have been looking at some of the core areas of linguistics, like syntax, phonology, semantics. Now I’d like to talk about the branch of historical linguistics, and the comparison of several different languages, or the comparison of different stages of a single language. Now, if you are comparing different languages, and you notice that they have a lot in common. Maybe they have similar sounds and words that correspond to one another that have the same meaning and that sound similar. |
| Signal words |
|
Let's move on to ... This brings me to my next point, which is…. So far we have have been looking at…. Now I'd like to…. So now that we've covered… What … is all about is this… |
| Examples |
|
All right folks, let's continue our discussion of alternative energy sources and move on to what's probably the most well-known alternative energy source--- solar energy. The sun basically provides earth with virtually unlimited source of energy every day, but the problem has always been how do we tap this source of energy. Can anyone think of why it's so difficult to make use of solar energy? OK. Another ancient Greek philosopher we need to discuss is Aristotle—Aristotle's ethical theory. What Aristotle's ethical theory is all about is this: he's trying to show you how to be happy—what true happiness is. Now, why is he interested in human happiness? It's not just because it's something that all people want to aim for. It's more than that. But to get there we need to first make a very important distinction. Let me introduce a couple of technical terms: extrinsic value and intrinsic value. All right, so far we have been looking at some of the core areas of linguistics, like syntax, phonology, semantics. Now I'd like to talk about the branch of historical linguistics, and the comparison of several different languages, or the comparison of different stages of a single language. Now, if you are comparing different languages, and you notice that they have a lot in common. Maybe they have similar sounds and words that correspond to one another that have the same meaning and that sound similar. |
| Signal words |
|
(opinion) I think, It appears that, It is thought that (theory) In theory, the hypothesis is that |
| Examples |
|
You have an advertising budget to spend, but how do you to spend it wisely. Again, research is the key. Good research gives you facts, facts that can help you decide, well, as we already mentioned, decide the right market to target, and the best media to use. But also: When to advertise? or…or how to get the best rates? Like, maybe you're advertising Sport equipment, and you have been spending most of your budget during the holiday season when people buy gifts for each other. Now, in theory, that would seem a great time to advertise, but maybe a research shows you're wrong, that the customers who buy sports equipment tend not to give it as a holiday gift, but want to use it themselves. In that case, advertising during a different season of the year might give you better results. We recently noticed an increase in cloud cover over an area of the ocean waters around Antarctica. An increased area of low thick clouds, the type that reflects a large portion of solar energy back to space and cools the Earth. Well, the reason for this increased cloud cover, it turns out, is the exceptionally large amount of microscopic marine plants. Well, the current hypothesis is that these microorganisms produce a chemical that interacts with the oxygen in the air, creating conditions that lead to the formation of the low thick clouds we observed. Well, that's true. It could have huge implications. So, maybe we are talking about controlling the weather. Perhaps, if the microorganisms near Antarctica really are responsible, perhaps we can accelerate the process somehow. |
Pay attention to the following transition words which can help you capture the main ideas and examples:
| Type of connection | Transition words |
| These words show the order of ideas. |
First/Second/Third Firstly (or "First of all")/Secondly/Thirdly (or "Lastly") For one thing/For another thing/Finally (or "Lastly") In the first place/in the second place/Finally (or "Lastly") |
| These words show the addition of information | In addition, furthermore, additionally, also, next, moreover, what's more, on top of that |
| These words shows conclusions. | To sum up, in summary, in conclusion, to conclude, all in all, all things considered ,overall, taking everything into consideration, in a nutshell |
| These words demonstrate contrast | Conversely, on the contrary, by contrast, by way of contrast, on one hand/on the other hand |
| These words compare or demonstrate similarity | Similarly, likewise, by the same token, along similar lines |
| These words show result. | As a result, as a consequence, consequently, therefore |
| These words state a generalization. | Generally, on the whole, in most cases, in general |
| These words clarify a point. | That is, in other words, to put it simply, That is to say, just to reiterate |
| These words give examples. | For example, for instance, take something, for example, to give a clear example |
| These words state an alternative. | Alternatively, as another possibility |
Tips to Improve TOEFL listening score
NO SKIPPING ANSWERS
Unlike the reading section, in the listening section you CANNOT skip answers and come back. If you skip a question, you will not be able to go back and answer it.
Make an educated guess on questions you are unsure of
When you don't know the answer, try to figure out which choice is most consistent with the main idea of the conversation or lecture. Another way is to eliminate obvious wrong answers.
Don't take more than two minutes to answer a question.
If you spend more than two minutes on a question, you might run out of time. It is not worth it. Leave time for other questions that you have more confidence on. It's better to have an educated guess and move on than it is to miss out on potential easy questions because you ran out of time.
Unlike the reading section, in the listening section you CANNOT skip answers and come back. If you skip a question, you will not be able to go back and answer it.
Make an educated guess on questions you are unsure of
When you don't know the answer, try to figure out which choice is most consistent with the main idea of the conversation or lecture. Another way is to eliminate obvious wrong answers.
Don't take more than two minutes to answer a question.
If you spend more than two minutes on a question, you might run out of time. It is not worth it. Leave time for other questions that you have more confidence on. It's better to have an educated guess and move on than it is to miss out on potential easy questions because you ran out of time.
Note-taking tips
Here are symbols you can use in your notes:
Other symbols:
| Symbol | Meaning | Examples |
| = | refer to, occur, ..etc | A concept that people make choices to describe a situation in a positive or negative way is referred to as word framing Word framing = ppl describe a situation in ✓ or X way. |
| ∵ | Because, as a result of, due to, because, owing to | Due to the increasing popularity of e-books, there has been a fall in paper book sales.
∵↑e-books, paper books $↓ |
| ∴ | Therefore | Element 43 has radioactive decay, therefore element 43 doesn't last very long, which means if that ever had been present on earth,
it would have decayed ages ago. Elem43 has radioa. decay ∴ it ≠ last long |
| => | result in, lead to, contribute to, give rise to, cause | Carbon dioxide significantly contributes to global warming. CO => global warming |
| ≠ | isn't, doesn't, don't, can't etc. |
Element 43 has radioactive decay, therefore element 43 doesn't last very long, which means if that ever had been present on earth,
it would decayed ages ago. Elem43 has radioa. decay ∴ it ≠ last long |
| + | many, lots of, a great deal of, etc. | Because potatoes have the ability to provide abundant and extremely nutritious food crop, no other
crop grew in Northern Europe. As a result, the nutrition of the general population improved tremendously and population
soared in the early 1800s. ∵ potatoes /nutri crop/+vitamins => popul↑ in Europe 1800s |
| ++ | Comparatives |
Older and more experienced birds who nest in the high density shrub areas have significantly more offspring than those
in low density areas, which suggests the choice of where to nest does have an impact on the number of chicks they have.
older birds /nest in high shrub ++offsprings birds/nest in low shrub |
| +++ | Superlatives | What was even more surprising were all the large
organisms that lived down there. The most distinctive of these was
something called the tube worm. Here, let me show you a picture.
The tube of the tube worm is really, really long. They can be up to one
and half meters long, and these tubes are attached to the ocean floor,
pretty weird looking, huh?
! +++special = tube warm /long/tubes attached to ocean floor |
| - | Little, few, lack ,in short of/ be in shortage of, etc. | As I said the monsoon migrated itself, so there was less rain in the Sahara.
The land started to get drier, which in turn caused huge decreases in the amount of vegetation,
because vegetation doesn't grow as well in dry soil, right? And then, less vegetation means the soil can't hold water and
the soil loses its ability to retain water when it does rain. So then you have less moisture to help clouds form, nothing
to evaporate for cloud formation. - rain in Sahara land ++dry => vegetation↓ --vegetation => soil ≠ hold water => -water to form cloud |
| ! | Important, interesting | But what's particularly interesting about these volcanoes is that most of the volcanoes here on Earth are not shield volcanoes.
Instead, they are other volcano types, like strata volcanoes, for example, which are a result of tectonic plate movement. ! volcanoes on earth ≠ shield volcanoes = strata volcanoes tectonic plate => volcanoes on earth |
Other symbols:
| Symbol | Meaning |
| & | And, also, in addition, etc. |
| ~ | about/around, approximately, etc. |
| ... | And so on |
| $ | Sales, money, cost |
| e.g. | For example |
| i.e. | That is |
| x | Wrong, incorrect, bad, detrimental, negative, etc. |
| ✓ | Right, good, positive, etc. |
Score Summary
0 / 1
Detail
0/1
Choose Response
0/1
Gist Content
0/1
Gist Purpose
0/1
Attitude
0/1
Inference
0/1
Connecting Content
0/1
Function
0/1
Hello! :)
Submit your listening answers to auto generate this report.
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You must complete listening practice first
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TOEFL listening LessonsCompleted: 0 / 82
Listening Tips
Listen for the main idea
In most cases, the first question after each lecture is a main idea question also known as a gist question. At the beginning of a listening lecture, the professor usually mentions what the main topic of the lecture will be about, but sometimes the topic might be branched into something more specific. Please note the topic can change, so always be prepared to note down any new topics.
Listen to the speaker's tone of voice
Sometimes you'll be asked questions regarding the speaker's attitude or opinion. To answer these questions correctly, tone of voice matters. For example, does the speaker sound excited, confused, sad...etc?
Listen to how ideas are connected throughout the lecture
When listening to a lecture, make note of the way the ideas in the lecture are connected. In other words, how the professor organized the lecture. When you encounter a question asking you how the lecture is organized, you can refer back to your notes. Some of the main relationships between ideas include cause/effect, compare/contrast, and steps in a process.
Listen for key points not specific details
TOEFL listening questions will not test you on small details. For example, you won't see questions that are about a specific year, name, or location. Instead, questions will test your understanding of key points mentioned in the lecture.
Listen for signal words that indicate different parts of the lecture
To help you capture key points in the lecture, you need to learn to listen for signal words or transition words. These words are like the road signs that tell you what is coming next. Signal words can tell you the beginning or the end of a topic. They can also help you move through the middle of the lecture by introducing topics.
Pay attention to the following transition words which can help you capture the main ideas and examples:
In most cases, the first question after each lecture is a main idea question also known as a gist question. At the beginning of a listening lecture, the professor usually mentions what the main topic of the lecture will be about, but sometimes the topic might be branched into something more specific. Please note the topic can change, so always be prepared to note down any new topics.
Listen to the speaker's tone of voice
Sometimes you'll be asked questions regarding the speaker's attitude or opinion. To answer these questions correctly, tone of voice matters. For example, does the speaker sound excited, confused, sad...etc?
Listen to how ideas are connected throughout the lecture
When listening to a lecture, make note of the way the ideas in the lecture are connected. In other words, how the professor organized the lecture. When you encounter a question asking you how the lecture is organized, you can refer back to your notes. Some of the main relationships between ideas include cause/effect, compare/contrast, and steps in a process.
Listen for key points not specific details
TOEFL listening questions will not test you on small details. For example, you won't see questions that are about a specific year, name, or location. Instead, questions will test your understanding of key points mentioned in the lecture.
Listen for signal words that indicate different parts of the lecture
To help you capture key points in the lecture, you need to learn to listen for signal words or transition words. These words are like the road signs that tell you what is coming next. Signal words can tell you the beginning or the end of a topic. They can also help you move through the middle of the lecture by introducing topics.
| Signal words |
| "Okay", "Well", "Now", "But", and "So" 1. "Okay" and "Now" are usually used to transition into a different topic or a different key point. 2. "Well" is usually used before answering a question. 3. "But" and "So" are usually followed by a key point. |
| Examples |
|
All right folks, let’s continue our discussion of alternative energy sources and move on to what’s probably the most well-known alternative energy source--- solar energy. The sun basically provides earth with virtually unlimited source of energy every day, but the problem has always been how do we tap this source of energy. Can anyone think of why it’s so difficult to make use of solar energy? OK. Another ancient Greek philosopher we need to discuss is Aristotle—Aristotle’s ethical theory. What Aristotle’s ethical theory is all about is this: he’s trying to show you how to be happy—what true happiness is. Now, why is he interested in human happiness? It’s not just because it’s something that all people want to aim for. It’s more than that. But to get there we need to first make a very important distinction. Let me introduce a couple of technical terms: extrinsic value and intrinsic value. All right, so far we have been looking at some of the core areas of linguistics, like syntax, phonology, semantics. Now I’d like to talk about the branch of historical linguistics, and the comparison of several different languages, or the comparison of different stages of a single language. Now, if you are comparing different languages, and you notice that they have a lot in common. Maybe they have similar sounds and words that correspond to one another that have the same meaning and that sound similar. |
| Signal words |
|
Let's move on to ... This brings me to my next point, which is…. So far we have have been looking at…. Now I'd like to…. So now that we've covered… What … is all about is this… |
| Examples |
|
All right folks, let's continue our discussion of alternative energy sources and move on to what's probably the most well-known alternative energy source--- solar energy. The sun basically provides earth with virtually unlimited source of energy every day, but the problem has always been how do we tap this source of energy. Can anyone think of why it's so difficult to make use of solar energy? OK. Another ancient Greek philosopher we need to discuss is Aristotle—Aristotle's ethical theory. What Aristotle's ethical theory is all about is this: he's trying to show you how to be happy—what true happiness is. Now, why is he interested in human happiness? It's not just because it's something that all people want to aim for. It's more than that. But to get there we need to first make a very important distinction. Let me introduce a couple of technical terms: extrinsic value and intrinsic value. All right, so far we have been looking at some of the core areas of linguistics, like syntax, phonology, semantics. Now I'd like to talk about the branch of historical linguistics, and the comparison of several different languages, or the comparison of different stages of a single language. Now, if you are comparing different languages, and you notice that they have a lot in common. Maybe they have similar sounds and words that correspond to one another that have the same meaning and that sound similar. |
| Signal words |
|
(opinion) I think, It appears that, It is thought that (theory) In theory, the hypothesis is that |
| Examples |
|
You have an advertising budget to spend, but how do you to spend it wisely. Again, research is the key. Good research gives you facts, facts that can help you decide, well, as we already mentioned, decide the right market to target, and the best media to use. But also: When to advertise? or…or how to get the best rates? Like, maybe you're advertising Sport equipment, and you have been spending most of your budget during the holiday season when people buy gifts for each other. Now, in theory, that would seem a great time to advertise, but maybe a research shows you're wrong, that the customers who buy sports equipment tend not to give it as a holiday gift, but want to use it themselves. In that case, advertising during a different season of the year might give you better results. We recently noticed an increase in cloud cover over an area of the ocean waters around Antarctica. An increased area of low thick clouds, the type that reflects a large portion of solar energy back to space and cools the Earth. Well, the reason for this increased cloud cover, it turns out, is the exceptionally large amount of microscopic marine plants. Well, the current hypothesis is that these microorganisms produce a chemical that interacts with the oxygen in the air, creating conditions that lead to the formation of the low thick clouds we observed. Well, that's true. It could have huge implications. So, maybe we are talking about controlling the weather. Perhaps, if the microorganisms near Antarctica really are responsible, perhaps we can accelerate the process somehow. |
Pay attention to the following transition words which can help you capture the main ideas and examples:
| Type of connection | Transition words |
| These words show the order of ideas. |
First/Second/Third Firstly (or "First of all")/Secondly/Thirdly (or "Lastly") For one thing/For another thing/Finally (or "Lastly") In the first place/in the second place/Finally (or "Lastly") |
| These words show the addition of information | In addition, furthermore, additionally, also, next, moreover, what's more, on top of that |
| These words shows conclusions. | To sum up, in summary, in conclusion, to conclude, all in all, all things considered ,overall, taking everything into consideration, in a nutshell |
| These words demonstrate contrast | Conversely, on the contrary, by contrast, by way of contrast, on one hand/on the other hand |
| These words compare or demonstrate similarity | Similarly, likewise, by the same token, along similar lines |
| These words show result. | As a result, as a consequence, consequently, therefore |
| These words state a generalization. | Generally, on the whole, in most cases, in general |
| These words clarify a point. | That is, in other words, to put it simply, That is to say, just to reiterate |
| These words give examples. | For example, for instance, take something, for example, to give a clear example |
| These words state an alternative. | Alternatively, as another possibility |
Tips to Improve TOEFL listening score
NO SKIPPING ANSWERS
Unlike the reading section, in the listening section you CANNOT skip answers and come back. If you skip a question, you will not be able to go back and answer it.
Make an educated guess on questions you are unsure of
When you don't know the answer, try to figure out which choice is most consistent with the main idea of the conversation or lecture. Another way is to eliminate obvious wrong answers.
Don't take more than two minutes to answer a question.
If you spend more than two minutes on a question, you might run out of time. It is not worth it. Leave time for other questions that you have more confidence on. It's better to have an educated guess and move on than it is to miss out on potential easy questions because you ran out of time.
Unlike the reading section, in the listening section you CANNOT skip answers and come back. If you skip a question, you will not be able to go back and answer it.
Make an educated guess on questions you are unsure of
When you don't know the answer, try to figure out which choice is most consistent with the main idea of the conversation or lecture. Another way is to eliminate obvious wrong answers.
Don't take more than two minutes to answer a question.
If you spend more than two minutes on a question, you might run out of time. It is not worth it. Leave time for other questions that you have more confidence on. It's better to have an educated guess and move on than it is to miss out on potential easy questions because you ran out of time.
Note-taking tips
Here are symbols you can use in your notes:
Other symbols:
| Symbol | Meaning | Examples |
| = | refer to, occur, ..etc | A concept that people make choices to describe a situation in a positive or negative way is referred to as word framing Word framing = ppl describe a situation in ✓ or X way. |
| ∵ | Because, as a result of, due to, because, owing to | Due to the increasing popularity of e-books, there has been a fall in paper book sales.
∵↑e-books, paper books $↓ |
| ∴ | Therefore | Element 43 has radioactive decay, therefore element 43 doesn't last very long, which means if that ever had been present on earth,
it would have decayed ages ago. Elem43 has radioa. decay ∴ it ≠ last long |
| => | result in, lead to, contribute to, give rise to, cause | Carbon dioxide significantly contributes to global warming. CO => global warming |
| ≠ | isn't, doesn't, don't, can't etc. |
Element 43 has radioactive decay, therefore element 43 doesn't last very long, which means if that ever had been present on earth,
it would decayed ages ago. Elem43 has radioa. decay ∴ it ≠ last long |
| + | many, lots of, a great deal of, etc. | Because potatoes have the ability to provide abundant and extremely nutritious food crop, no other
crop grew in Northern Europe. As a result, the nutrition of the general population improved tremendously and population
soared in the early 1800s. ∵ potatoes /nutri crop/+vitamins => popul↑ in Europe 1800s |
| ++ | Comparatives |
Older and more experienced birds who nest in the high density shrub areas have significantly more offspring than those
in low density areas, which suggests the choice of where to nest does have an impact on the number of chicks they have.
older birds /nest in high shrub ++offsprings birds/nest in low shrub |
| +++ | Superlatives | What was even more surprising were all the large
organisms that lived down there. The most distinctive of these was
something called the tube worm. Here, let me show you a picture.
The tube of the tube worm is really, really long. They can be up to one
and half meters long, and these tubes are attached to the ocean floor,
pretty weird looking, huh?
! +++special = tube warm /long/tubes attached to ocean floor |
| - | Little, few, lack ,in short of/ be in shortage of, etc. | As I said the monsoon migrated itself, so there was less rain in the Sahara.
The land started to get drier, which in turn caused huge decreases in the amount of vegetation,
because vegetation doesn't grow as well in dry soil, right? And then, less vegetation means the soil can't hold water and
the soil loses its ability to retain water when it does rain. So then you have less moisture to help clouds form, nothing
to evaporate for cloud formation. - rain in Sahara land ++dry => vegetation↓ --vegetation => soil ≠ hold water => -water to form cloud |
| ! | Important, interesting | But what's particularly interesting about these volcanoes is that most of the volcanoes here on Earth are not shield volcanoes.
Instead, they are other volcano types, like strata volcanoes, for example, which are a result of tectonic plate movement. ! volcanoes on earth ≠ shield volcanoes = strata volcanoes tectonic plate => volcanoes on earth |
Other symbols:
| Symbol | Meaning |
| & | And, also, in addition, etc. |
| ~ | about/around, approximately, etc. |
| ... | And so on |
| $ | Sales, money, cost |
| e.g. | For example |
| i.e. | That is |
| x | Wrong, incorrect, bad, detrimental, negative, etc. |
| ✓ | Right, good, positive, etc. |
Score Summary
0 / 1
Detail
0/1
Choose Response
0/1
Gist Content
0/1
Gist Purpose
0/1
Attitude
0/1
Inference
0/1
Connecting Content
0/1
Function
0/1
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Listening Tips
Listen for the main idea
In most cases, the first question after each lecture is a main idea question also known as a gist question. At the beginning of a listening lecture, the professor usually mentions what the main topic of the lecture will be about, but sometimes the topic might be branched into something more specific. Please note the topic can change, so always be prepared to note down any new topics.
Listen to the speaker's tone of voice
Sometimes you'll be asked questions regarding the speaker's attitude or opinion. To answer these questions correctly, tone of voice matters. For example, does the speaker sound excited, confused, sad...etc?
Listen to how ideas are connected throughout the lecture
When listening to a lecture, make note of the way the ideas in the lecture are connected. In other words, how the professor organized the lecture. When you encounter a question asking you how the lecture is organized, you can refer back to your notes. Some of the main relationships between ideas include cause/effect, compare/contrast, and steps in a process.
Listen for key points not specific details
TOEFL listening questions will not test you on small details. For example, you won't see questions that are about a specific year, name, or location. Instead, questions will test your understanding of key points mentioned in the lecture.
Listen for signal words that indicate different parts of the lecture
To help you capture key points in the lecture, you need to learn to listen for signal words or transition words. These words are like the road signs that tell you what is coming next. Signal words can tell you the beginning or the end of a topic. They can also help you move through the middle of the lecture by introducing topics.
Pay attention to the following transition words which can help you capture the main ideas and examples:
In most cases, the first question after each lecture is a main idea question also known as a gist question. At the beginning of a listening lecture, the professor usually mentions what the main topic of the lecture will be about, but sometimes the topic might be branched into something more specific. Please note the topic can change, so always be prepared to note down any new topics.
Listen to the speaker's tone of voice
Sometimes you'll be asked questions regarding the speaker's attitude or opinion. To answer these questions correctly, tone of voice matters. For example, does the speaker sound excited, confused, sad...etc?
Listen to how ideas are connected throughout the lecture
When listening to a lecture, make note of the way the ideas in the lecture are connected. In other words, how the professor organized the lecture. When you encounter a question asking you how the lecture is organized, you can refer back to your notes. Some of the main relationships between ideas include cause/effect, compare/contrast, and steps in a process.
Listen for key points not specific details
TOEFL listening questions will not test you on small details. For example, you won't see questions that are about a specific year, name, or location. Instead, questions will test your understanding of key points mentioned in the lecture.
Listen for signal words that indicate different parts of the lecture
To help you capture key points in the lecture, you need to learn to listen for signal words or transition words. These words are like the road signs that tell you what is coming next. Signal words can tell you the beginning or the end of a topic. They can also help you move through the middle of the lecture by introducing topics.
| Signal words |
| "Okay", "Well", "Now", "But", and "So" 1. "Okay" and "Now" are usually used to transition into a different topic or a different key point. 2. "Well" is usually used before answering a question. 3. "But" and "So" are usually followed by a key point. |
| Examples |
|
All right folks, let’s continue our discussion of alternative energy sources and move on to what’s probably the most well-known alternative energy source--- solar energy. The sun basically provides earth with virtually unlimited source of energy every day, but the problem has always been how do we tap this source of energy. Can anyone think of why it’s so difficult to make use of solar energy? OK. Another ancient Greek philosopher we need to discuss is Aristotle—Aristotle’s ethical theory. What Aristotle’s ethical theory is all about is this: he’s trying to show you how to be happy—what true happiness is. Now, why is he interested in human happiness? It’s not just because it’s something that all people want to aim for. It’s more than that. But to get there we need to first make a very important distinction. Let me introduce a couple of technical terms: extrinsic value and intrinsic value. All right, so far we have been looking at some of the core areas of linguistics, like syntax, phonology, semantics. Now I’d like to talk about the branch of historical linguistics, and the comparison of several different languages, or the comparison of different stages of a single language. Now, if you are comparing different languages, and you notice that they have a lot in common. Maybe they have similar sounds and words that correspond to one another that have the same meaning and that sound similar. |
| Signal words |
|
Let's move on to ... This brings me to my next point, which is…. So far we have have been looking at…. Now I'd like to…. So now that we've covered… What … is all about is this… |
| Examples |
|
All right folks, let's continue our discussion of alternative energy sources and move on to what's probably the most well-known alternative energy source--- solar energy. The sun basically provides earth with virtually unlimited source of energy every day, but the problem has always been how do we tap this source of energy. Can anyone think of why it's so difficult to make use of solar energy? OK. Another ancient Greek philosopher we need to discuss is Aristotle—Aristotle's ethical theory. What Aristotle's ethical theory is all about is this: he's trying to show you how to be happy—what true happiness is. Now, why is he interested in human happiness? It's not just because it's something that all people want to aim for. It's more than that. But to get there we need to first make a very important distinction. Let me introduce a couple of technical terms: extrinsic value and intrinsic value. All right, so far we have been looking at some of the core areas of linguistics, like syntax, phonology, semantics. Now I'd like to talk about the branch of historical linguistics, and the comparison of several different languages, or the comparison of different stages of a single language. Now, if you are comparing different languages, and you notice that they have a lot in common. Maybe they have similar sounds and words that correspond to one another that have the same meaning and that sound similar. |
| Signal words |
|
(opinion) I think, It appears that, It is thought that (theory) In theory, the hypothesis is that |
| Examples |
|
You have an advertising budget to spend, but how do you to spend it wisely. Again, research is the key. Good research gives you facts, facts that can help you decide, well, as we already mentioned, decide the right market to target, and the best media to use. But also: When to advertise? or…or how to get the best rates? Like, maybe you're advertising Sport equipment, and you have been spending most of your budget during the holiday season when people buy gifts for each other. Now, in theory, that would seem a great time to advertise, but maybe a research shows you're wrong, that the customers who buy sports equipment tend not to give it as a holiday gift, but want to use it themselves. In that case, advertising during a different season of the year might give you better results. We recently noticed an increase in cloud cover over an area of the ocean waters around Antarctica. An increased area of low thick clouds, the type that reflects a large portion of solar energy back to space and cools the Earth. Well, the reason for this increased cloud cover, it turns out, is the exceptionally large amount of microscopic marine plants. Well, the current hypothesis is that these microorganisms produce a chemical that interacts with the oxygen in the air, creating conditions that lead to the formation of the low thick clouds we observed. Well, that's true. It could have huge implications. So, maybe we are talking about controlling the weather. Perhaps, if the microorganisms near Antarctica really are responsible, perhaps we can accelerate the process somehow. |
Pay attention to the following transition words which can help you capture the main ideas and examples:
| Type of connection | Transition words |
| These words show the order of ideas. |
First/Second/Third Firstly (or "First of all")/Secondly/Thirdly (or "Lastly") For one thing/For another thing/Finally (or "Lastly") In the first place/in the second place/Finally (or "Lastly") |
| These words show the addition of information | In addition, furthermore, additionally, also, next, moreover, what's more, on top of that |
| These words shows conclusions. | To sum up, in summary, in conclusion, to conclude, all in all, all things considered ,overall, taking everything into consideration, in a nutshell |
| These words demonstrate contrast | Conversely, on the contrary, by contrast, by way of contrast, on one hand/on the other hand |
| These words compare or demonstrate similarity | Similarly, likewise, by the same token, along similar lines |
| These words show result. | As a result, as a consequence, consequently, therefore |
| These words state a generalization. | Generally, on the whole, in most cases, in general |
| These words clarify a point. | That is, in other words, to put it simply, That is to say, just to reiterate |
| These words give examples. | For example, for instance, take something, for example, to give a clear example |
| These words state an alternative. | Alternatively, as another possibility |
Tips to Improve TOEFL listening score
NO SKIPPING ANSWERS
Unlike the reading section, in the listening section you CANNOT skip answers and come back. If you skip a question, you will not be able to go back and answer it.
Make an educated guess on questions you are unsure of
When you don't know the answer, try to figure out which choice is most consistent with the main idea of the conversation or lecture. Another way is to eliminate obvious wrong answers.
Don't take more than two minutes to answer a question.
If you spend more than two minutes on a question, you might run out of time. It is not worth it. Leave time for other questions that you have more confidence on. It's better to have an educated guess and move on than it is to miss out on potential easy questions because you ran out of time.
Unlike the reading section, in the listening section you CANNOT skip answers and come back. If you skip a question, you will not be able to go back and answer it.
Make an educated guess on questions you are unsure of
When you don't know the answer, try to figure out which choice is most consistent with the main idea of the conversation or lecture. Another way is to eliminate obvious wrong answers.
Don't take more than two minutes to answer a question.
If you spend more than two minutes on a question, you might run out of time. It is not worth it. Leave time for other questions that you have more confidence on. It's better to have an educated guess and move on than it is to miss out on potential easy questions because you ran out of time.
Note-taking tips
Here are symbols you can use in your notes:
Other symbols:
| Symbol | Meaning | Examples |
| = | refer to, occur, ..etc | A concept that people make choices to describe a situation in a positive or negative way is referred to as word framing Word framing = ppl describe a situation in ✓ or X way. |
| ∵ | Because, as a result of, due to, because, owing to | Due to the increasing popularity of e-books, there has been a fall in paper book sales.
∵↑e-books, paper books $↓ |
| ∴ | Therefore | Element 43 has radioactive decay, therefore element 43 doesn't last very long, which means if that ever had been present on earth,
it would have decayed ages ago. Elem43 has radioa. decay ∴ it ≠ last long |
| => | result in, lead to, contribute to, give rise to, cause | Carbon dioxide significantly contributes to global warming. CO => global warming |
| ≠ | isn't, doesn't, don't, can't etc. |
Element 43 has radioactive decay, therefore element 43 doesn't last very long, which means if that ever had been present on earth,
it would decayed ages ago. Elem43 has radioa. decay ∴ it ≠ last long |
| + | many, lots of, a great deal of, etc. | Because potatoes have the ability to provide abundant and extremely nutritious food crop, no other
crop grew in Northern Europe. As a result, the nutrition of the general population improved tremendously and population
soared in the early 1800s. ∵ potatoes /nutri crop/+vitamins => popul↑ in Europe 1800s |
| ++ | Comparatives |
Older and more experienced birds who nest in the high density shrub areas have significantly more offspring than those
in low density areas, which suggests the choice of where to nest does have an impact on the number of chicks they have.
older birds /nest in high shrub ++offsprings birds/nest in low shrub |
| +++ | Superlatives | What was even more surprising were all the large
organisms that lived down there. The most distinctive of these was
something called the tube worm. Here, let me show you a picture.
The tube of the tube worm is really, really long. They can be up to one
and half meters long, and these tubes are attached to the ocean floor,
pretty weird looking, huh?
! +++special = tube warm /long/tubes attached to ocean floor |
| - | Little, few, lack ,in short of/ be in shortage of, etc. | As I said the monsoon migrated itself, so there was less rain in the Sahara.
The land started to get drier, which in turn caused huge decreases in the amount of vegetation,
because vegetation doesn't grow as well in dry soil, right? And then, less vegetation means the soil can't hold water and
the soil loses its ability to retain water when it does rain. So then you have less moisture to help clouds form, nothing
to evaporate for cloud formation. - rain in Sahara land ++dry => vegetation↓ --vegetation => soil ≠ hold water => -water to form cloud |
| ! | Important, interesting | But what's particularly interesting about these volcanoes is that most of the volcanoes here on Earth are not shield volcanoes.
Instead, they are other volcano types, like strata volcanoes, for example, which are a result of tectonic plate movement. ! volcanoes on earth ≠ shield volcanoes = strata volcanoes tectonic plate => volcanoes on earth |
Other symbols:
| Symbol | Meaning |
| & | And, also, in addition, etc. |
| ~ | about/around, approximately, etc. |
| ... | And so on |
| $ | Sales, money, cost |
| e.g. | For example |
| i.e. | That is |
| x | Wrong, incorrect, bad, detrimental, negative, etc. |
| ✓ | Right, good, positive, etc. |