Looking to secure a future by studying abroad? The first critical stepping stone is mastering the TOEFL test. You’ll require exceptional English communication and writing skills. The TOEFL test ascertains your academic English proficiency. It measures how sufficiently you read, write, speak, and listen. Institutes worldwide, including in the US and UK, acknowledge its score.
A strong TOEFL score amplifies your chances of admission. It again helps with employment and immigration opportunities. Want to study in an English-speaking nation? A fair TOEFL score can unlock doors. Looking for TOEFL Speaking Tips? Keep reading!
Overview of the TOEFL Speaking Test
Before discussing tips, one should have a proper grasp of the TOEFL Speaking Format. Here’s some quick data:
What is the TOEFL Speaking Test?
The TOEFL iBT Speaking section tests real-world skills. It checks how well you speak in academic settings. Expect four tasks that mirror daily situations. Some relate to classroom discussions, while others do not.
Task Breakdown of TOEFL Speaking Test
- Question 1: Independent task. Share your own ideas and opinions.
- Questions 2–4: Integrated tasks. Combine listening, reading, and speaking skills.
Timing and Format of TOEFL Speaking Test
- Prep Time: You get 15–30 seconds before answering.
- Response Time: Each answer lasts 45 or 60 seconds.
- Accents: You’ll hear English from the US, UK, Australia, or New Zealand.
TOEFL Speaking Test Scoring and Duration
- Test Time: The section takes about 16 minutes.
- Scoring: AI and human raters score responses. Final scores range from 0 to 30.
Understanding Accents in the TOEFL Speaking Section
TOEFL Speaking section features various English accents. You’ll hear speeches from the US, UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Only the first question may include different accents. The rest of the section primarily uses North American accents.
Example Scenarios
- You’ll hear a 15-second clip with a UK accent.
- You’ll then have 45 seconds to respond.
TOEFL Speaking Topics: What to Expect?
The TOEFL Speaking Section includes a variety of topics. You’ll answer questions using your own words, ideas, and experiences. Here are the most common TOEFL Speaking topics-
- Life & Personal Experiences
- Culture & Country
- Food & Dining
- Work & Employment
- Studies & Learning
- Travel & Tourism
- Entertainment & Media
- Family & Friends
- Technology & Gadgets
- Sports & Recreation
TOEFL Speaking Example Questions
Here are some common TOEFL Speaking Questions. In tests, these questions can vary but more or less, the essence remains the same:
- What’s one moment that totally changed your life?
- Which holiday is your all-time favorite, and why?
- Can you share a memorable experience?
- How would you sum up your country’s culture?
- Which national holiday is a big deal in your country?
- What’s a meal you could eat forever?
- Is teamwork better than performing alone?
- Should firms offer perks or pay raises?
- What’s your favorite subject?
- Who was your best teacher and why?
- What’s the must-see spot for visitors in your city?
- Where’s your go-to escape when you need a break?
- Which movie or TV show do you never get tired of?
- Who’s the smartest person you know?
- What place would you recommend to a visitor?
- What’s your favorite sport or hobby?
TOEFL Speaking Practice Tips
Are you feeling clueless when it comes to prepping for the TOEFL Speaking test? Having a list of practice questions is cool but are you lacking motivation? We get it! To help you organize your studies, we’ve put together TOEFL Speaking tips to guide you toward success.
Practice, Don’t Just Watch Videos
Watching videos can be a helpful starting point. They are great for introducing concepts. However, real progress happens when you actively engage. You can’t improve your speaking skills without actually speaking. If you only have 10 minutes to practice, spend 9 minutes actually speaking and just 1 minute watching videos. Your progress depends on it. To score higher on the speaking test, you’ll have to speak.
If you’re preparing for multiple English proficiency tests, understanding different speaking strategies can be beneficial. Check out our IELTS Speaking Tips for insights that can also enhance your TOEFL preparation.
Prepare for Different Types of Questions
When it comes to the TOEFL Speaking test, there are many types of questions. You’ll face priority questions, agree or disagree, and advantages or disadvantages. Each one needs a different approach. Don’t worry – we’ve got a plan to help.
What is a Priority Question? These ask you to choose what’s most important. How to answer? Choose wisely and explain why. Don’t rush to pick an answer. Take a moment to think. Give a strong reason for your choice.
What is an Agree or Disagree Question? Here, you need to take a side. Don’t just pick one. Explain why you agree or disagree. Build a strong case. Your opinion should be clear and confident. Focus on defending your choice with reasons.
Looking for some good introductory phrases? Here are a few examples:
- “I think/believe/feel that…”
- “Personally/frankly speaking…”
- “To be honest…”
What is an Advantages and Disadvantages Question? For these, you’ll consider both sides. Talk about the good and bad. Start with one side, then the other. But lean into one side more. Your answer should have a clear focus. Don’t forget to back up your points.
Record Your Voice
Recording your voice helps you avoid messing up your performance while answering TOEFL Speaking Questions. It’s a way to practice without any pressure.
Is there an app for that? Absolutely! Smartphones come with built-in apps. iPhones have voice memos, and Samsung offers voice recorders. Plus, practicing alone is way less awkward. You can record in peace at home, while walking, or even in the bathroom! Also, share your recordings. Send your voice and get feedback from tutors or friends.
Find a Practise Buddy
Staying motivated for TOEFL Speaking Practice can be tough. Sometimes, but having a buddy to keep us going. A study partner makes your preparation less lonely. You can join a Facebook group of TOEFL test-takers. You can find like-minded buddies who share your goals.
But if you need results fast, nothing beats a good tutor. At DG Training, you can take TOEFL training where experts will help pinpoint your weaknesses. You will also receive dedicated support for your study routine. Regular constructive feedback will polish your skills.
Get Expressive with Your Hands
Want a simple trick to improve your speaking? Use your hands! Gesturing while speaking makes you appear more open and expressive. If you’re struggling for words, a little hand movement can trigger the right word.
This technique is especially helpful for tactile learners. Studies have even shown that hand movements can help you recall difficult words while taking a TOEFL Speaking test.
Developing strong communication skills can enhance your confidence in speaking. Learn how to improve your soft skills to communicate more effectively.
Find Your Perfect Study Time and Place
Effective studying starts with the right time and place. Early riser? Hit the TOEFL Speaking topics in the morning. Night owl? Focus on studying in the evening. Dedicate specific, quiet time to TOEFL Speaking practice. Schedule it in advance and create a space free from distractions. If your phone is a distraction, switch it to airplane mode.
Take Your TOEFL Preparation to the Next Level with DG Training
If you’ve tried the TOEFL Speaking Tips and still feel stuck, it might be time for a change. Sometimes, self-study isn’t enough. A professional teacher can help. They can give you personalized guidance to boost your TOEFL score. At DG Training, we offer structured speaking practice. We also provide live feedback on your spoken English. Plus, we create study plans just for you. Our TOEFL teachers know exactly what works. So, why not take the next step? Sign up for a lesson today.
Want to improve your score on the reading section as well? Checkout our detailed blog on TOEFL Reading Tips!
FAQs
Use a timer during practice to simulate the test environment. For independent tasks, practice with 15 seconds to prepare and 45 seconds to speak. For integrated tasks, use 30 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to respond.
Don’t worry! Repetition is key. Keep practicing with timers and use speech-to-text apps to get immediate feedback and adjust your pronunciation.
Use speech-to-text technology like Google Voice Typing. If your words are typed correctly, your pronunciation is spot on. If not, try speaking more slowly and clearly. It’s a great tool for practicing your pronunciation and receiving instant feedback. It can help you identify areas to work on before the TOEFL Speaking test.
