How to prepare for an interview in TOEFL speaking?

“Is the speaking in the TOEFL test totally different from the IELTS? Is there a different type of preparation needed for the TOEFL Speaking?

There is no interview in the TOEFL speaking test. Some people think that the Test of English as a Foreign Language has the same setup of speaking test with the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam where examinees are to be assessed in an interview type of test. The TOEFL speaking test is an internet-based examination. Candidates for the said examination need not worry about native English speakers examiners. All they have to worry is to understand English language in an academic context.

The TOEFL test uses English in its academic context. This means that the tasks in the speaking test has something to do with academic topics or scenarios are set in an academe. People who will take the TOEFL test find it difficult if they are not ready and not informed about the flow of the exam. How can one prepare for the test?

• Know the basics of the examination. There are six tasks in the exam. Tasks are divided into independent tasks  (questions 1 and 2) and integrated tasks (questions 3 to 6). Independent questions ask for the personal opinion of the examinee while integrated tasks evaluate the person’s ability to summarize ideas on both given lecture and reading passages. 

• Independent tasks are quite hard as you have to come up with ideas in as short as 15 seconds. Write answers in words or phrases. Create the sentences in your head.

• Integrated tasks’ responses need to be outlined. Always start off with an introduction followed by the main points from the reading or the lecture. Avoid repeating what you have heard or read. Remember that you are evaluated on how well you understood the material not with the details on the notes you have. 

• Use transition words. These transitions will help you separate your ideas. Further, these will also create a smooth flow of ideas in your response. 

• Do not worry if you are not familiar with the topic in the integrated tasks. It will not ask about your prior knowledge but on how well you comprehend the given material. 

• Read on the web or review manuals on common topics used in both the independent and integrated tasks. 

• Practice. There are a lot of TOEFL review centers with TOEFL speaking coaches who can provide assistance in perfecting your speaking skills. They provide outlines in every task for starters and comments to better responses. 

Speaking is easier when you know the common topics of the exam. Preparation and exposure to different practice materials will help candidates ready for the TOEFL speaking test. 

For more TOEFL Tips toeflreview.blogspot.com.