Speaking for TOEFL
Question 1
QUESTION STYLES
- Pure Experience . Questions of this type look something like this: "Describe the time when you felt especially proud of an academic achievement. Explain why you felt that way."
- Three Choices . Questions of this type look something like this: Which of these methods do you think is the best way to prepare for a test: 1) studying alone, 2) studying with friends, 3) asking a teacher for help?
- Giving Advice . Questions of this type look something like this: A friend of yours is having frequent disagreements with his parents. What advice would you give your friend about resolving this problem?
- Opinion (Independent Essay Style) . Questions of this type look something like this: Your university has decided to reduce the amount of money it spends to support sports activities. What is your opinion and why?
STRUCTURE YOUR ANSWER
- Main Point . “A time when I … ” “In my opinion …” “I would advise my friend to …” “I think that …”
- Transition . “I feel this way for two reasons …” This was – for two main reasons.” “I would make these suggestions for two main reasons.”
- First Reason . “First …” + “To be more specific …”
- Second Reason . “Second …” + “For example”
- Conclusion . “In conclusion …” (Optional)
TODAY'S QUESTION
A SAMPLE ANSWER
“ One of your friends is extremely nervous when giving presentations in his classes. What would you suggest he do to overcome his fear?”
I would advise my friend to join a public speaking club on campus. I would suggest this for two main reasons. First of all, this would give him a chance to talk in front of others without feeling much pressure. To be more specific, he won't be graded on the quality of his presentations, so he can practice this way without worrying that mistakes will affect his academic record. Secondly, other members of the club will likely have experienced some of the same anxieties that he is currently feeling, and will be able to offer relevant advice and suggestions. For example, when I was in such an organization during my freshman year I was given a lot of really appropriate tips. As a result, I excelled when presenting in my actual classes.
A SAMPLE ANSWER
“ One of your friends is extremely nervous when giving presentations in his classes. What would you suggest he do to overcome his fear?”
I would advise my friend to join a public speaking club on campus. I would suggest this for two main reasons. First of all, this would give him a chance to talk in front of others without feeling much pressure. To be more specific, he won't be graded on the quality of his presentations, so he can practice this way without worrying that mistakes will affect his academic record. Secondly, other members of the club will likely have experienced some of the same anxieties that he is currently feeling, and will be able to offer relevant advice and suggestions. For example, when I was in such an organization during my freshman year I was given a lot of really appropriate tips. As a result, I excelled when presenting in my actual classes.
GOOD LUCK