Read a short passage
取得作文批改與文法糾錯,以及詳細分數報告。
取得寫作批改
寫作目的與請求清楚:這封信用簡單明確的方式說明寫信原因。你提到提交詩作時系統出錯,並希望確認投稿狀態;「Could you please tell me about the status of my submissions?」這句話讓請求非常直接,也符合這封信的目的。
背景交代良好:你先說明自己是雜誌讀者,也表達喜歡這本雜誌。這能幫助工作人員理解你的身分與關心原因,開頭也顯得友善。
語氣禮貌:你使用了「I hope you are fine」和「Could you please...」等禮貌表達,讓請求更專業、也更容易被接受。
問題細節充足:你提到提交了兩首詩、使用線上投稿表單、頁面出現錯誤並變成空白,而且沒有收到確認信。這些資訊能幫助對方查詢系統問題。
弱點未發現明顯弱點。
段落結構清楚:信件分成三個短段落,第一段提供背景與稱讚,第二段說明問題,第三段提出請求。讀者可以很容易一步一步理解。
邏輯順序自然:你先建立正面語氣,再說明發生的問題,最後提出希望對方協助的事項。這樣的順序有助於讀者快速掌握情況。
段落焦點明確:每段都只有一個主要功能,因此整體清楚且容易閱讀。
篇幅適中:內容沒有加入無關故事或過長解釋,能尊重讀者時間。
弱點段落轉折:從稱讚雜誌到描述問題的轉換略突然。可在第二段開頭加上「However」或「Recently, I had an issue」讓語氣更順。
結尾收束:問題之後可加上「Thank you for your help.」這類簡短句子,使信件更完整、更有禮貌。
改進練習內容集中:信件沒有加入不相關資訊,始終圍繞投稿、網站錯誤與確認狀態。
細節具體:你說明嘗試提交兩首詩、使用線上表單、按下提交後頁面出錯。這些步驟能幫助工作人員追查。
困惑原因清楚:沒有收到確認信是很重要的支持細節,能合理說明你為什麼擔心投稿沒有成功。
請求明確:最後的問題正好對應前文細節,要求確認投稿狀態,符合整封信的目的。
弱點描述精確度:「show error and become blank」不夠自然,可改成「showed an error message and then the page went blank」。
時間順序:使用一致的過去式會更清楚,例如「After I uploaded my files and clicked the submit button, the page showed an error and became blank.」
改進練習意思清楚:即使有文法錯誤,讀者仍能理解情況與請求,主要想法完整。
禮貌問句正確:「Could you please tell me about the status of my submissions?」是正確且禮貌的問法,顯示你能使用情態助動詞與禮貌句型。
弱點主詞動詞一致:「one of your reader」應改為「one of your readers」;「It make me more confidence」應改為「It makes me more confident」;「my poems was received」應改為「my poems were received」。
時態一致:已完成的動作應使用過去式,例如 uploaded、clicked、showed、became。
冠詞:需要加入 a/an/the,例如「a chance」、「the submit button」、「an error」。
介系詞:submit by the form 不自然,可用「through」或「via the online submission form」。
詞形:「confident」是形容詞,比「confidence」更適合用在 makes me more confident;「share their work」也比「share their works」自然。
改進練習禮貌用語:你使用「I hope you are fine」與「Could you please...」,適合正式信件。
主題字彙:poetry magazine、deep、emotional、inspired、peaceful 等字符合情境,也能表達你的感受。
專門用語:submission(s) 與 confirmation email 是此情境中合適且精確的詞。
弱點搭配:「give chance」應為「give a chance」或「offer opportunities」;「more confidence」應為「more confident」;「share their works」通常改為「share their work」。
重複:「really like... very much」重複,可改成「I really enjoy your poetry magazine」。
技術用語:可用「showed an error message」、「went blank」或「crashed」更精確描述問題。
改進練習順序合理:信件從背景開始,接著說明問題,最後提出請求,讓讀者能快速理解並回覆。
連接詞:because、Every time、After、so 等字呈現原因與時間順序。
因果清楚:頁面出錯且未收到確認信,因此不確定投稿是否成功,這個關係容易理解。
段落易讀:三個短段落適合螢幕閱讀,也讓每部分目的明確。
弱點連接詞:「Every time when I read」不自然,可改為「Every time I read」或「When I read」。
時態順序:保持過去式能讓事件更清楚,例如「After I uploaded my files and clicked the submit button, the page showed an error and became blank.」
改進練習任務完成度是指你回應題目的完整程度。TOEFL 評分者希望看到能直接回答問題、想法相關且發展充分的回應。完成任務代表完整回答題目的所有部分。
請申請批改以查看此內容
...
整體組織是指你如何安排作文中的想法,包括是否能運用基本文章結構,並圍繞主要想法組織不同段落。
請申請批改以查看此內容
...
支持內容的相關性與品質是指作文內容與想法。內容應直接與題目相關,並有幾個主要想法支持你的觀點或立場;這些想法應具說服力。
請申請批改以查看此內容
...
文法使用是指你如何運用英文文法、句構與基本寫作規範。評分者希望看到你能正確使用已掌握的文法,並用多樣句型表達想法。
請申請批改以查看此內容
...
字彙使用是指你如何運用英文詞彙。評分者希望看到你能正確、精準地使用不同字詞,並用廣泛詞彙幫助讀者理解。在整合寫作中,評分者也會看你是否能把聽力或閱讀中的新字詞融入寫作。
請申請批改以查看此內容
...
連貫與銜接是指你如何整合想法並連接句子。評分者希望看到文章能自然地從一個想法推進到下一個想法,不讓讀者感到困惑。
請申請批改以查看此內容
...
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: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 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
取得作文批改與文法糾錯,以及詳細分數報告。
取得寫作批改
寫作目的與請求清楚:這封信用簡單明確的方式說明寫信原因。你提到提交詩作時系統出錯,並希望確認投稿狀態;「Could you please tell me about the status of my submissions?」這句話讓請求非常直接,也符合這封信的目的。
背景交代良好:你先說明自己是雜誌讀者,也表達喜歡這本雜誌。這能幫助工作人員理解你的身分與關心原因,開頭也顯得友善。
語氣禮貌:你使用了「I hope you are fine」和「Could you please...」等禮貌表達,讓請求更專業、也更容易被接受。
問題細節充足:你提到提交了兩首詩、使用線上投稿表單、頁面出現錯誤並變成空白,而且沒有收到確認信。這些資訊能幫助對方查詢系統問題。
弱點未發現明顯弱點。
段落結構清楚:信件分成三個短段落,第一段提供背景與稱讚,第二段說明問題,第三段提出請求。讀者可以很容易一步一步理解。
邏輯順序自然:你先建立正面語氣,再說明發生的問題,最後提出希望對方協助的事項。這樣的順序有助於讀者快速掌握情況。
段落焦點明確:每段都只有一個主要功能,因此整體清楚且容易閱讀。
篇幅適中:內容沒有加入無關故事或過長解釋,能尊重讀者時間。
弱點段落轉折:從稱讚雜誌到描述問題的轉換略突然。可在第二段開頭加上「However」或「Recently, I had an issue」讓語氣更順。
結尾收束:問題之後可加上「Thank you for your help.」這類簡短句子,使信件更完整、更有禮貌。
改進練習內容集中:信件沒有加入不相關資訊,始終圍繞投稿、網站錯誤與確認狀態。
細節具體:你說明嘗試提交兩首詩、使用線上表單、按下提交後頁面出錯。這些步驟能幫助工作人員追查。
困惑原因清楚:沒有收到確認信是很重要的支持細節,能合理說明你為什麼擔心投稿沒有成功。
請求明確:最後的問題正好對應前文細節,要求確認投稿狀態,符合整封信的目的。
弱點描述精確度:「show error and become blank」不夠自然,可改成「showed an error message and then the page went blank」。
時間順序:使用一致的過去式會更清楚,例如「After I uploaded my files and clicked the submit button, the page showed an error and became blank.」
改進練習意思清楚:即使有文法錯誤,讀者仍能理解情況與請求,主要想法完整。
禮貌問句正確:「Could you please tell me about the status of my submissions?」是正確且禮貌的問法,顯示你能使用情態助動詞與禮貌句型。
弱點主詞動詞一致:「one of your reader」應改為「one of your readers」;「It make me more confidence」應改為「It makes me more confident」;「my poems was received」應改為「my poems were received」。
時態一致:已完成的動作應使用過去式,例如 uploaded、clicked、showed、became。
冠詞:需要加入 a/an/the,例如「a chance」、「the submit button」、「an error」。
介系詞:submit by the form 不自然,可用「through」或「via the online submission form」。
詞形:「confident」是形容詞,比「confidence」更適合用在 makes me more confident;「share their work」也比「share their works」自然。
改進練習禮貌用語:你使用「I hope you are fine」與「Could you please...」,適合正式信件。
主題字彙:poetry magazine、deep、emotional、inspired、peaceful 等字符合情境,也能表達你的感受。
專門用語:submission(s) 與 confirmation email 是此情境中合適且精確的詞。
弱點搭配:「give chance」應為「give a chance」或「offer opportunities」;「more confidence」應為「more confident」;「share their works」通常改為「share their work」。
重複:「really like... very much」重複,可改成「I really enjoy your poetry magazine」。
技術用語:可用「showed an error message」、「went blank」或「crashed」更精確描述問題。
改進練習順序合理:信件從背景開始,接著說明問題,最後提出請求,讓讀者能快速理解並回覆。
連接詞:because、Every time、After、so 等字呈現原因與時間順序。
因果清楚:頁面出錯且未收到確認信,因此不確定投稿是否成功,這個關係容易理解。
段落易讀:三個短段落適合螢幕閱讀,也讓每部分目的明確。
弱點連接詞:「Every time when I read」不自然,可改為「Every time I read」或「When I read」。
時態順序:保持過去式能讓事件更清楚,例如「After I uploaded my files and clicked the submit button, the page showed an error and became blank.」
改進練習任務完成度是指你回應題目的完整程度。TOEFL 評分者希望看到能直接回答問題、想法相關且發展充分的回應。完成任務代表完整回答題目的所有部分。
請申請批改以查看此內容
...
整體組織是指你如何安排作文中的想法,包括是否能運用基本文章結構,並圍繞主要想法組織不同段落。
請申請批改以查看此內容
...
支持內容的相關性與品質是指作文內容與想法。內容應直接與題目相關,並有幾個主要想法支持你的觀點或立場;這些想法應具說服力。
請申請批改以查看此內容
...
文法使用是指你如何運用英文文法、句構與基本寫作規範。評分者希望看到你能正確使用已掌握的文法,並用多樣句型表達想法。
請申請批改以查看此內容
...
字彙使用是指你如何運用英文詞彙。評分者希望看到你能正確、精準地使用不同字詞,並用廣泛詞彙幫助讀者理解。在整合寫作中,評分者也會看你是否能把聽力或閱讀中的新字詞融入寫作。
請申請批改以查看此內容
...
連貫與銜接是指你如何整合想法並連接句子。評分者希望看到文章能自然地從一個想法推進到下一個想法,不讓讀者感到困惑。
請申請批改以查看此內容
...
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: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 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.
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 |

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 |

[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.
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 |


| 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. |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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. |

| 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. |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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. |

| 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. |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| 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. |