Where to Take TOEFL Exam in Davao City?

“I am Michael and I am scheduled for the TOEFL examination in Davao City. However, I am not sure what is the name of the establishment and its address, how can I find it?”

Registering for the TOEFL or the Test of English as a Foreign Language is very simple as it can be done online. Payments are online too making it so convenient for everyone, especially Davaoenos who are far from the capital city, Manila.

Davao City is one of the cities gaining a lot of examiners for the TOEFL examination. Different people from all over Mindanao flock in Davao to take the examination. Why is this so? This is for the reason that Davao City has a TOEFL test center and it has very good TOEFL review centers for all examinees. Some examinees do not mind going to Davao to take classes. They would even spend thousands of pesos living in a cheap hotel just to undergo intensive training for the TOEFL examination. What they have in mind is the assurance that they will get a better score in the test since they have practices, exercises, mock exams and coaching in these TOEFL review centers.

Candidates for the examination in Davao City do not need to worry about the TOEFL test center. It is in Seattle Effective Language Center, Inc. located in Tigatto Road, Buhangin, Davao City. It is a fifteen to twenty minute jeepney ride from the city center and about ten minute ride by taxi. This test center is very conducive for the examination as candidates are given their own rooms for the test. It would be easier to do speaking examinations as you will not hear other candidates giving their responses. Indeed, Davao’s test center is convenient and perfect for the test.

Further, candidates should not forget the availability of test dates in Davao City: Here is a list of test dates in Davao:

December 13, 14, 2014 and 21, 2014

January 10, 11, 25, and 31, 2015

February 01 and 14, 2015

March 07 and 28, 2015

In  addition, every candidate should be aware of the flow of the examination. There are lots of information on the internet. However, the best information for the test can be found in reviews in TOEFL review centers. Classroom lectures are managed by highly competitive instructors. They have one-on-one coaching that will help ensure candidates get their desired score, most especially in the speaking session.

TOEFL review centers in Davao City are a big help in getting a good score for the TOEFL. Manage your time wisely and prepare for the TOEFL exam as early as possible. 

For more TOEFL Tips toeflreview.blogspot.com.

What is Grandison Management?

It was in 1998 when Grandison Management started making health professionals’ dream s come true. Grandison Management is known for providing a wide range of services to health care organizations. They have a commitment to provide the most up-to-date services in the most caring, sensitive and professional manner – ensuring the quality of their services. Knowledge, skills, and resources – Grandison makes it sure that they provide the highest quality of staffing needs choosing the best professionals and dedicated employees that will give their best care and support in their respective fields. 

Grandison Management believes in its core values:

• Commitment to Excellent Service – Grandison Management only provides the best people that can provide the best professional healthcare needs to their clients. 

• Client-centered Service – They always put their clients first. 

• Creativity and Innovation in Service – Finding the newest and best solutions for healthcare professionals in the US.

Grandison Management gives the best candidates who can work professionally and be the best in providing care. Qualified candidates are very proficient and are a good match to the clients’ needs. They are offering:

 

Nurses Therapists Other Specialties

- Registered Nurses (RN)

- Licenses Practical Nurses (LPN)

- Certified Nursing Aides (CAN)

- Orderlies (RN) - Occupational Therapists

- Physical Therapists

- Respiratory Therapists

- Speech Therapists - Administration

- Clerical

- Dietary

- Drivers

- Housekeeping

- Maintenance

- Recreation

- Security

- Social Services

Grandison Management provides the best services to health care professionals as they live their dreams of becoming a health care professional in the United States. Grandison clients are given the following benefits:

• Health Insurance

• Professional Liability Insurance

• Visa Sponsorship

• Accommodation

• Licensing and Renewal

Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists have the best possible opportunities in the United States with Grandison Management. Candidates chosen by Grandison Management will be enjoying the following:

- Professional opportunities in a variety of health care settings

- Opportunity to live and work in exciting locations in the United States

- Full financial and academic assistance in NPTE preparation, as well as TOEFL, through a quality review program

- Employers that appreciate one’s expertise and needs as an international therapist

- Efficient and fast processing of required documentation

- Free airfare for US examinations

- Satisfactory contract term, salary, and bonus options

- Comprehensive benefits and insurance packages

If you want to know more information about Grandison Management, visit http://www.grandisonmanagement.com.

What Does the TOEFL Exam Setup Looks Like?

The growing number of people taking English proficiency examinations has been increasing for the past years. This is a clear indication that more and more Filipinos have found great opportunities for them overseas. English proficiency tests are major requirement for non-native English speakers, like Filipinos, when they wish to work, study or stay for good in other countries. One of these tests being taken by many Filipinos is the TOEFL or the Test of English as a Foreign Language.

There are a lot of people who are still clueless on how the test looks like – the detail on its sections, the physical layout of the test center and other information that will make them informed for the test. Having said this, let us have a short yet detailed overview of the TOEFL test.

As a computer-based test, candidates will have to make use of computers to finish the examination. Most of the time, test centers are like internet shops where people are divided by cubicles for the test. The test administrators will be checking the examinees from time to time to check if they need something or have troubles in using the computer for the test. Now, what can candidates expect from the test itself?

First, every candidate should know that the TOEFL is an academic English test. Most topics covered are subjects in school which makes it a bit easier since the topic could be anything from the different fields of knowledge in the academic context.

Reading passages pose a little threat of difficulty with their content. Any topics can be used; hence, there are a lot of students who think that the reading should be practiced most of the time, and improving one’s vocabulary is a good start. Second, candidates are going to listen to a lecture or a conversation on an academic topic. The trick is getting the right main idea and the details of these to be able to answer questions after listening to the audio recording. After these two sections, the candidate is given a ten-minute mandatory break before starting the second half: speaking and writing.

The speaking test is divided into independent and integrated tasks. Candidates have to give responses in a very limited time. They have to think of good points along with strong reason to support their ideas. The writing is a showcase of how well one integrates an idea from a reading and lecture, and an opinion-based question for the second task. Once the test is finished, the candidate can leave the workstation provided scratch papers are left behind.

The TOEFL test’s challenge is the vocabulary in the test. Since it is academic, there would be words that are difficult to understand and even use in the sentence. With this, it is very important for a candidate to study and even join TOEFL review classes to prepare themselves not only academically but also mentally, emotionally and even physically. 

My Experiences During the TOEFL Exam

 It has been a year since I last took my TOEFL test but the feeling seemed like yesterday. Honestly, I really had a hard time preparing for my TOEFL test. It was my boss who asked me to get a TOEFL certificate for it was needed for a scholarship offered by the company for me. Since it was good for my career, I just followed what I was told to, not knowing of how difficult the exam was. I read some blogs online on how to prepare for the test but I thought that reading this stuff was not enough.

Going to the bookstore was not much of a help either. I was in the middle of choosing this book over another. I thought buying one is enough as the content would just be the same. Surprisingly, the price of the book cost me quite a few pesos. Reading the book was a little helpful until I saw a friend recommended studying in a review center. Good thing the review center had available classes at night, so I joined their TOEFL program.

I had difficulty adjusting the first week of the review. The concept of the exam was explained so is the flow of the exam and the techniques for it. As weeks passed, I immediately got the “style” in answering the test until I was endorsed for the examination.

Now, I would like to tell you how similar the questions are from the reviews I had with my review center.

The reading was difficult with different academic topics covered. I was surprised to read about Dadaism which we practiced in class. Hence, I did not have a hard time understanding the passage for I had a little background on the topic. Choosing the answers was not as difficult as I thought for I was taught how in my review class.

The one thing I am thankful for in my review class is that my note-taking skills have totally improved. In the listening test, I was able to come up with good notes and they were organized as well. I did not have a hard time finding details because of my notes were actually almost perfect.

The speaking was challenging. With a little time to prepare, I made outline of my answers in words and not in sentences. This was taught by my coach and I was able to give good responses with strong details. The integrated tasks were not that difficult too as I was able to understand the reading and the listening passages.

I am happy that I had TOEFL grammar classes. Writing essays became a breeze. I was able to outline my answer before writing them. It indeed saved time and organized the flow of my ideas. Further, with the correct transition words, my essay was written very well and I got the score that I expected. Thanks to my mentors who guided me for the test.

The TOEFL test can be easy once you know how to respond to its tasks appropriately. The secret? Join TOEFL course programs and attend classes as often as possible. 

Which is Easier? IELTS or TOEFL?

Having heard about the announcement that starting November 2014, the TOEFL or the Test of English as a Foreign Language is already accepted in visa applications for Australia, many more Filipinos are given the opportunity to choose which type of English proficiency examination they are going to take. Currently, IELTS or the International English Language Testing System examination is accepted in Australia. With this announcement, Filipinos can now choose between TOEFL and IELTS. But the question is, which one is easier?

To be able to choose which one is easier, let us find out more information about these examinations. First, the TOEFL is a computer-based examination. Candidates will have to use a computer with an internet connection to complete the test. The test has four different sections – reading, listening, speaking and writing. Since it is a computer-based examination, the speaking test is recorded. Tasks can be heard as a recording and responses are recorded and transferred to the test provider’s servers which will then be assessed by its raters. The content of the examination is academic which means topics covering the exam are from school or university subjects like science, art, literature, music, and even history.

On the other hand, the IELTS test is a paper-based examination. Like the TOEFL, it also focuses on the four skills in English: speaking, reading, listening and writing. Candidates are to be use a pen and paper to complete the examination. Having said this, the speaking test is done by a one-on-one interview wherein a candidate has to sit for ten to fifteen minutes with the test examiner. The assessment is right on the spot which brings more anxiety to the one taking the examination. It is not an academic type of test as it uses social context in its questions. This means questions are based on everyday situations and typical conversations in daily lives.

So, which one is easier? If you look at the two exams, they have different context; hence, it is the candidate’s own decision whether to take the TOEFL or the IELTS. The candidate needs to ask himself or herself whether he or she is better at academic topics or in social context. Both tests are easy if you take review classes for them. There are a lot of TOEFL and IELTS training in the country. Both training are designed to let students build, improve and develop their skills for the tests.

Any kind of tests becomes easy with the right preparation and development of skills. Be it TOEFL or IELTS, all you have to do is practice and do your best in the examination.

If you are planning to take IELTS you can go here www.jroozreview.com/ielts-review-center, for TOEFL www.jroozreview.com/toefl-review-center.

The Cost of TOEFL Test and Review in the Philippines

“I am taking the TOEFL test but I am not sure what this test is all about and how much would it cost me?”
Are you having the same thoughts upon knowing that your application overseas needs a TOEFL or the Test of English as a Foreign Language certification? Are you already familiar with the test, its review and how much it is going to cost you?

The TOEFL examination is one English proficiency exams today. The test is accepted in a lot of academic institutions and companies all over the world. The TOEFL has been trusted by these entities because of its reliability and assurance of bringing an accurate examination that would gauge a person’s full potential in using and understanding the English language.

In the Philippines, most individuals who take the TOEFL are people seeking a work opportunity or students pursuing a degree overseas. The test certifies that ability of a person to survive in an English speaking country. With it as a main requirement for a visa grant, hitting the target score is very crucial.
As part of preparation for the TOEFL test, many candidates choose to study with TOEFL review centers. There review centers have carefully designed courses that will increase and develop the candidates’ skills in academic English. Like any other English fluency examinations, the TOEFL has four different parts – reading, listening, speaking and writing.

In reading review classes, lecturers give reading comprehension exercises that will enhance students’ abilities in recognizing main ideas and key points. Also, vocabulary activities are incorporated to build a strong foundation with words. Listening classes help students better their note taking skills. This is essentially needed as audio recordings are only heard once. Speaking classes not only prepare the students in giving out appropriate responses to six tasks but also build their confidence in using the English language. Finally, writing classes are to check the students’ skills in expressing themselves in written text. Grammar and sentence building exercises are incorporated in these classroom lectures.

Registering for the TOEFL test is quite easy as everything is done online. Candidates need to prepare a credit card and prepare USD195 as registration fee. Simply say, the fee is about PhP 9000. Candidates who have problem registering or do not have a credit card can ask TOEFL review centers for help in registering.
Indeed, TOEFL review centers not only limit their services in providing a quality review for students but also help in registering for the examination. TOEFL review in review centers is the best way to a successful TOEFL test.

ETS Rolls Out New Voice Identification Security System

It has been reported that there was a breach in the security of one of the ETS or Educational Testing Service's exam - the TOEFL or the Test of English as Foreign Language. As ETS is committed in giving the highest quality and reliability of exams and its priority of having secured exam, ETS has decided to use a biometric voice identification system in its coming examinations. This plan will run for two years as part of its initial integration.

With the new system, any TOEFL candidates will be assured of the security of the exam. In addition, cheating on the exam will be impossible.

For those who are unfamiliar of the TOEFL, the TOEFL test is an English proficiency examination. This Means that candidates who take this exam are evaluated According to THEIR knowledge and fluency in using the English language. It has four parts - the reading, listening, speaking and writing. The TOEFL test uses an academic approaches in the examination. When we say academic approaches, most questions that are used are different from the knowledge in school. Questions can be anything from the fields of architecture, engineering, science and technology, music and even psychology.

In the reading section, the candidate's reading comprehension is assessed. Moreover, he or she will be facing different vocabulary in these passages. Candidates need to be able to understand the passages in a short span of time since the time is very limited in the examination.

In the listening section, there are conversations and classroom lectures. Taking down notes on essential key points is important as questions usually ask for details in these audio recordings.

The speaking section is composed of six questions. The first two questions are independent. Candidates will be given a statement in Which They have to give THEIR opinions. The rest are integrated tasks where candidates need to use the information They have listened to or read to the question given.

Finally, the writing is composed of two tasks. The integrated involves a reading passage and a lecture. Candidates Should be able to write an essay showing the between this connection two. The task is a question independent candidates wherein Should write THEIR viewpoints. Some fail to reach the minimum numbers or words in the writing. The best thing to do here is always follow the essential parts of an essay - write an introduction, compose a strong body with two to three Paragraphs and an effective conclusions.

With the new voice recognition system in the TOEFL, any candidates are assured of the quality and accuracy of the TOEFL exam.

Communication Skills in the IELTS and TOEFL Tests

They say that through communication, verbally or non-verbally, we are able to understand other people. Because of communication, we can build relationships, and even destroy the same relationship when both parties do not understand each other. Hence, we see the importance of having good communication skills in building rapport with others.

One’s communication skill is carefully evaluated when taking an English proficiency examination like the TOEFL or the Test of English as a Foreign Language and the IELTS or the International English Language Testing System examination. These two tests have speaking and writing sections that measure a person’s ability to communicate his or her own ideas both in spoken and written manner.

Having a good communication skill is very important in both tests. First, having a good communication skill means being able to explain your thoughts clearly. For example, in the TOEFL examination, there are two independent speaking questions. Candidates are asked questions and they need to support these opinions made with reasons that are strong and appropriate. Being given a very limited time to prepare and respond, stating your points clearly is very crucial. You have to express what is in your mind fluently and spontaneously as much as possible. Since the time is very limited, you need to think fast and speak what is on your mind directly. In the IELTS, clearly stating your ideas is important in the second and third tasks. Being able to come up with intelligent and meaningful responses will bear good results. In writing, being able to find the right vocabulary through effective sentence construction and grammar brings out the best in your written communication. Like in speaking, you have to pick the right words and play with it in your sentences to be able to impart what you think of.

Another thing one benefits from having good communication skills is the confidence one have in speaking and writing. When you are good at both, you will not have a hard time thinking of what to say or write. You are confident that whatever comes out of your mind for speaking and writing are right. Confidence is what most non-native English speakers need. When you are confident, you do not fear in speaking in front of a native speaker or writing what you have inside your head. If you are confident, you can carry a conversation very well that the interviewer will not get bored with you.

Communication skills for both tests are crucial in getting a good score. Learning it is a process; hence, it is best for people to practice with people who could bring out the best in a person. These people are mentors and coaches that one can meet in IELTS and TOEFL review centers. With the help of these people, being able to communicate clearly and confidently will not be a problem. 

TOEFL or IELTS? Which is Applicable for Me?

“I am a nurse applying for a job in Australia. The agency has told me that I should take the IELTS, but I am not sure what to expect from this test.”

“My brother is getting ready to study in the US. One of his requirements is to get a score of 80 in the TOEFL. He is now preparing for the TOEFL. However, I am quite confused if he can take any other English tests other than the TOEFL.”

The TOEFL or the Test of English as a Foreign Language and the IELTS or the International English Language Testing System are two popular English proficiency examinations. Many Filipinos are accustomed to these tests, but not all know the differences between the two.

TOEFL

The TOEFL is a computer-based examination. The test needs a computer with Internet connection. The test covers the four language skills – reading, listening, speaking and writing. Each section gets a perfect score of 30 which makes 120 as the perfect score in the TOEFL. The TOEFL evaluates how well an individual can understand and use English in an academic setting. This means that most questions are situations and topics inside an academic institution. The TOEFL test is usually given three to four times in month.

IELTS

Unlike the TOEFL, the IELTS is a paper-based examination. Most of the time, the IELTS speaking section goes or follows the written assessments: listening, reading, and writing. Speaking of which, the speaking section is done in front of a native English speaker. Candidates have to be assessed live through different speaking tasks. In addition, the IELTS has two modules – the General and Academic. These two modules are taken by individuals depending on the need of the school or company they are applying for. Candidates are scored in bands from 0 as the lowest and 9.0 as the highest.  The test is usually administered once or twice a month.

Students and professionals are always wondering what test will best suit them. Actually, it all depends on the country, company or school the person is applying. For example, nurses who are targeting Australia need the IELTS. Students who are taking courses in America have to take the TOEFL. Some institutions accept both as well.

What these people have to do is to check the test these institutions require before deciding to take TOEFL or the IELTS.

Both tests need training; hence, reviewing in review centers is a must. Self studying can help, but getting lectures and pointers from coaches are much better. Be well prepared to take the tests through quality reviews for IELTS and TOEFL.

How to Take the TOEFL-iBT in the Philippines

Are you planning to further your education in overseas? Do you want to practice your profession and earn a better salary in countries abroad?

Every Filipino wants to have a better life. Due to this thought, most Filipinos seek employment or study overseas most especially in the United States of America.  The US has been a good place for work and study. If you happen to be getting your requirements ready to work or study in the US, you should know that you have to take an English proficiency test as part of your eligibility in the said country. Any individuals have to take the TOEFL or the Test of English as a Foreign Language.

The TOEFL is an internet –based examination measuring one’s ability to use and understand the English language in a university level. It evaluates a person’s proficiency in its four core skills – reading, listening, speaking, and writing. Individuals who usually take the test are students who have plans studying at a higher education institution or applying for a scholarship grant, working professionals who are applying for a working visa, and individuals who want to know their English levels.

Here in the Philippines, the number of people taking the TOEFL test is increasing. How do Filipinos take the TOEFL iBT in the Philippines?

1. First, individuals need to register their personal account at http://www.ets.org/toefl/ibt/register/.  Candidates have to be sure that they fill out all the necessary information. Check for misspelled words and the ID used upon registering should be the same ID to be used on the day of the examination.

2. Check on any available date of the examination. There are a number of test centers in the Philippines. Choose one that is close to your area. Be sure you get familiar with the place before the day of the test.

3. Upon selection of the date, you will have to pay for the examination. Payment is done through credit card. American Express, Discover, JCB, Mastercard  or Visa are accepted.

4. Be sure to register for a test date seven days before that examination.

5. An email will be sent to your registered email indicating the place of the examination and the test date. Be sure to print this and bring this on the exam day.

Some people who do not own a credit card might find it difficult to pay for the exam. You can actually use your debit cards for registration too. However, if you do not have any, you can visit any TOEFL review center for assistance. TOEFL review centers not only assist clients on registration but also offer training programs for the TOEFL test. They have course programs that will build and develop an individual’s academic English skills which are of great importance in the TOEFL iBT test.

For more information on registration, visit http://www.ets.org/toefl/ibt/register/.

Read more here: http://dabawenyokini.blogspot.com

Boost Your Reading Comprehension Speed

The main problem with reading examinations, whether it be in the International English Language Test System (IELTS) or the Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) is time management. Students would often tell me that their problem is the time – that it is too short to read 1200 words and answer questions. Unfortunately, we cannot petition for the test takers to lengthen the time. We can only learn to manage ours and to ensure that we hone our skills to be more efficient readers. The first step is to up the speed of your reading comprehension.

Here are some tried and tested techniques to put a little more speed in your reading.

1. Use the speed reading techniques. There are several problems with slow readers.  Verbalizing words in their head and re-reading the same lines are two of the most common. “Saying the words in your head” slows you down because you tend to read word per word. Try and read “quietly” to increase the speed. Also, let your eyes read clusters of words instead of just one. Do not worry, your comprehension will not suffer.

A technique to prevent reading the same thing again and again is to use a pencil or a card to track the line of words you are reading. You will be amazed at how much you cut down on your reading time just by doing this.

2. Enhance your vocabulary. One of the primary reasons why people read slowly and have difficulty in comprehension is that they usually do not understand the words used by the writer. The solution is thus simple: increase your lexical resource. You can do this by jotting down words you come across during reading and finding their definitions and how they are used.

3. Try and read between the lines. This is especially applicable when you are reading more literary writings, but also helpful in the IELTS Reading Exam, particularly when you are asked to determine what the author feels about a certain subject. Insight to this would help the reader understand the message of the writer.

4. Read, read, and read more. Read as much as you can. One of the best ways to do the techniques above is to do it as much as you can. They did say practice makes perfect and even if perfection is very difficult, near-perfection is acceptable enough. And near-perfection in reading comprehension speed would be of big help to your IELTS Reading Test.

Photo Credit: http://www.oise.utoronto.ca/balancedliteracydiet/Reading_Comprehension_Strategies.html

Get more IELTS tips here:  http://www.ieltsexamstips.com/

Why are the IELTS and the TOEFL Requirements for Going Abroad

Many migration agencies and consultancy films require candidates going to the US, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada to sit something called the International English Language Test System (IELTS). If you plan on pursuing studies abroad, especially in the United States, you may be made to undergo Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL). What are these exams? As you may have deduced, these are exams for English.

Many wonder why English exams are required to go abroad, especially for us Filipinos who read English newspaper, listen to English songs, read English literature like Harry Potter, and thrive in an English-communicating Internet. Here are the top 2 reasons for your enlightenment.

1. These exams are formal, credible, and concrete proof of your English language competency. If you plan on entering a university for your master’s degree, getting a license to practice your profession in another country, or hoping to be employed as a professional or skilled worker in a country that mainly communicates in English, the reputation of your own nation’s English skills is not enough of an assurance that you are proficient in the language. This is why an exam is needed, to assure your employers and your school administrators that language will not be a problem and you can compete in the workplace or academically.

For this reason, the IELTS and the TOEFL are even required by those who administer licensure examinations for different professions. For instance, to be able to sit the NCLEX (nursing licensure exam for the US), States would either require the TOEFL or the IELTS. Before getting the Canadian nursing licensure exam, you must pass the IELTS first. For the NPTE, which is the licensure exam for Physical therapists in the United States, getting a good score on the TOEFL is a must.

2. These exams are evidence that you will be able to adjust to their culture and society. It is very important to assure the government of the country you will be going to that you will not be a liability. This means that you may be left alone and you will b able to transact and interact with their natives. This means that language should not be a barrier. The IELTS or the TOEFL is a concrete assurance that you will be able to transcend the language barriers between countries.

This is why most migrants, even spouses of citizens of a particular English communicating country, are required to take either the IELTS or the TOEFL.

Is it possible that these exams will not be a requirement? Yes. It actually depends upon policy. However, if it is required, there is no choice but to go about it and hopefully come out successful.

Good luck!

How to Achieve a 30 in TOEFL Speaking

The Test of English as Foreign Language (TOEFL) is an exam of English proficiency, just like the IELTS. The TOEFL also tests one’s ability to the listen, read, write, and speak in the language. The format of the exam, however, is quite different. Moreover, the exam integrate skills. For instance, for the Writing Exam, you may be given a reading material and a lecture to listen to. Your task is to write a report regarding what you have read and heard.

 Although the TOEFL may be easy for more proficient users of the English language, getting a perfect score in the TOEFL is still quite challenging, especially if you are not aware of the tips and tricks behind that flawless 30.  This is quite true when it comes to the TOEFL Speaking Examination.

Here are some things that can be done in order to get that elusive perfect score.

1. Know the format by heart. The format of the exam is your friend. It will help you understand the techniques of attacking the test better and even help you create your own. This is very important in the TOEFL speaking test because it gives you an idea of the time limit – both for preparation and speaking. Also, knowing the format will ensure that you know what you expect. And you know what they say – forewarned is forearmed.

2. Take down notes. Unless you have photographic memory (and you’d be lucky if you do), you would probably forget details mentioned in the Listening or Reading component of the Integrated part of the speaking exam. It is vital that when you sit the integrated parts of the test (which are four out of six questions by the way) that you complete all of the details.

3. Ensure that when you answer, it is organized. Organization is the mark of a well-done impromptu speech. Therefore, being able to pull off a speech that is well organized says a lot about your speaking skills. Fortunately for TOEFL test-takers, there are actually templates for these. Practice with these templates but best make sure that you sound natural and note like a robot.

4. Watch out for Grammar mistakes and stay away from fancy words you don’t know how to use. TOEFL is an English exam, thus syntax is important. Make sure that your Grammar is as polished as it can be. Another common mistake which test takers make is using complicated words wrongly. Using simple words precisely is a better option.

Of course, the last secret is not a secret at all: practice.

Good luck!

Where to Practice TOEFL Speaking Online

It has always been suggested to any individual planning to take the TOEFL or Test of English as Foreign Language to enrol in review classes for the said examination. Many can attest the efficiency and advantages in learning in TOEFL review centers. In review centers, enrolees are given different speaking exercises that will develop their expertise in using the language. Moreover, they have different exercises that will make students more familiar with the TOEFL examination. Indeed, the services given by TOEFL review centers are the best and the most helpful.

In addition, there is still another strategy that candidates for the TOEFL can do to practice their speaking skills. It is to use the internet for studying. Yes, there are certain websites found online that will help candidates develop their language skills and the good thing about this is it is free of charge. All candidates need to know is their computer and a good internet connection and they are ready to start training at home. Hence, here are some websites that candidates can take advantage in training for their TOEFL speaking Exam.
1. The English Club
http://www.englishclub.com/esl-exams/ets-toefl-practice-speaking.htm
This website has practice questions for the TOEFL speaking tasks and with sample responses. What is good about this website is that the script of the audio passages is also available for the candidates to check their own answers. Also, sample responses are available for the candidate to have a comparison. In addition, they also have other exercises on the other sections of the TOEFL.

2. TOEFL Cafe
http://toeflcafe.blogspot.com/2010/09/speaking-station-v1-free-speaking.html
TOEFL Cafe has simple interface that will allow candidates to train their English speaking skills without downloading any program or software. It has the six question types of the speaking section and all is for free. Further, there are other activities for the other sections of the TOEFL examination.

3. TestDen
http://www.testden.com/toefl/speaking-tutorial/
This site is specially designed to improve the candidate’s speaking skills. It will develop not only the content of the responses but also the pronunciation, intonation and the vocabulary of the candidate.  This site also has an accent reduction course to reduce the regional accent of some TOEFL test takers.
These three are the many websites online that provide free courses for the TOEFL Speaking. Check these websites and learn more for the TOEFL examination. Together with the strategies taught in the TOEFL review centers, candidates are sure to get their desired scores to pursue their applications for work or study abroad.

Typing Speed and the TOEFL Exam

There are a lot of English proficiency examinations available from different English test providers in the world today. One of these is the Test of English as a Foreign Language taken by different Filipino professionals and students worldwide. Professionals need the TOEFL as a requirement for applications in different companies and industries around the world. Additionally, students take the TOEFL as a prerequisite in attending exchange student programs in different countries in the world. This makes the TOEFL exam a sought after examination among English proficiency examinations.

The TOEFL examination is divided into four different sections. These four sections are namely: reading, listening, speaking and writing. These four sections are specially designed to gauge the candidate’s know-how in using English. There are certain candidates who are asking whether candidates need to type fast on the examination, specifically in writing section. Let’s discuss if one’s typing speed is relevant in the TOEFL examination.

The writing examination of the TOEFL is divided into two parts: the integrated and independent writing. In the integrated writing, candidates have to write their responses based on a reading passage and a recorded lecture. The second task requires the candidate to come up with an essay based on a statement given. Furthermore, the integrated task should be completed in twenty minutes and the independent task in thirty minutes.

As a candidate, typing speed can be an advantage; however, it is not really necessary to be a fast typist. The advantage of having a good typing speed is you can finish writing your essay before your time runs out. Moreover, having more time to think as soon as you finish writing gives you an advantage to edit you essay. Revising your essay is good for you to eliminate irrelevant information, check grammar and add better details that will make your essay stronger and better.

How can one practice their typing speed?
Typing speed can be learned, but you should be careful with committing spelling errors while typing. To practice your typing speed, you can try http://www.typeonline.co.uk/typingspeed.php and http://www.typingtest.com/ to test your typing ability skills. Moreover, you will be able to know how many words you can type in a minute.

Practicing your typing skills is an advantage, but it is not totally necessary. The most important thing is the content in your essay. The answer to the question, the comprehensibility and the usage of grammar and vocabulary are still much more important.

Read more toefl tips here: http://toeflreview.blogspot.com/

Why do Immigrants Need to Take English Test

Many people who wish to be immigrants in English-communicating countries would often question the need for sitting an English proficiency exam. Countries such as Canada, Australia, the UK, the US, and New Zealand would require non-native communicators of English to take examinations such as the International English Language Test System (IELTS) or the TOEFL (Test of English as Foreign Language), although the latter is most often required for those who wish to get a student visa.

There are several reasons why English tests are important to migrants. Basically, an English examination is seen as a determiner of the would-be migrant’s ability to adapt to their new lives.

1.       English examinations such as the IELTS are required by policy. English-speaking countries have made English proficiency exam results as a main requirement in the points system for migration. The higher the score in the prescribed English test, the higher the points.  

2.       It proves their English proficiency and makes it more possible for them to join the working class of that country. Communication is an important skill for anyone who wishes to join the workforce. English examinations such as the IELTS or the TOEFL are concrete proofs of a candidate’s English proficiency. Many employers would be hesitant in giving jobs to non-native speakers of their language, for fear of difficultly in communication. Such perception of language barrier can be broken if the migrant presents his or her English exam results.

3.       It is evidence of the candidate’s ability to socialize with others. Social interaction is seen as an important part of one’s integration in a community.  Countries which accept migrants would want them to be integrated with those countries’ natives. Communication skill, as well as proof of it, is important for migrants in order to live a full life abroad.

4.       In ensures that migrants are able to transact or do business with natives. This is particularly important, seeing that a migrant should be independent in doing every day transactions such as buying food, commuting, and even negotiating for a place to live. In the IELTS examination, for instance, the module crafted for would-be migrants, the General Training module, contains letter writing. This is to assess a migrant’s ability to communicate in formal English, which they may have to do during their stay in the English-communicating country.

For migrants, the English exams  are not just a requirement but a test and a proof of their ability to survive and live life well in the country they wish to migrate to. This is the primary importance of English examinations. 

How to Achieve a 30 in TOEFL Speaking

The Test of English as Foreign Language’s Speaking examination is the most challenging aspect of the TOEFL for many test-takers. The test consists of six tasks, each one unique in its skill demands. Furthermore, most of these tasks require test-takers to integrate listening and reading skills. Indeed, getting a great score in TOEFL Speaking is no mean feat, but it is not impossible.

Here are the top tips that will help you earn that perfect TOEFL Speaking Score.

1.       Organize, organize, organize. An organized speech is the mark of a great speaker. You are in luck, because if you are talking the TOEFL, there are actually specific patterns that you can follow that would immediately give structure to your speech.

2.       Connect ideas. The use of transition words to show logic and/chronology is quite important in the TOEFL, especially since in the test, you will mostly be enumerating premises which support your idea. Also, the use of words which show contradiction or complement of ideas is quite helpful in boosting your score.

3.       Work on your fluency. In the TOEFL, everything is timed, including the duration of your talk. Fluency refers to the ability to speak continuously. Because the test is timed, every pause and every filler will count against you. Practice fluency by doing practice examinations and by using English continuously even outside the classroom.

4.       Work within the time limit. As stated above, everything in the TOEFL is timed. In TOEFL Speaking in particular, the preparation time and the speaking time are specified. Make sure that you make the most out of the prep time by taking down notes effectively. For the speaking time, you must try and get in all the ideas you want to express within the given duration.

5.       Stay focused on the prize. Anxiety is the most dangerous enemy of any speaker. Here is the truth: no matter how seasoned a speaker is, there will always be that tinge of anxiety. Stage fright never goes away. The trick is to make sure you know that the performance is more important than the anxiety – that the TOEFL Speaking Score of 30 is much more important than your nerves. Beat the anxiety of speaking by practicing more and staying focus on the task.

The TOEFL Speaking Test is difficult – that is a given. But getting a score that is above and beyond what most people would need – a perfect 30 – is not impossible. All you need is the right preparation.

Good luck!

How to Ace the TOEFL

The TOEFL is one of the more challenging international exam for English proficiency. Not only is it a very long exam – roughly 4 hours for all of the subtest – but its integrated format, question types, and skill requirements are quite demanding. However, nothing is impossible, and with the right kind of preparation a test-taker may be able to pass the TOELF with flying colors…which is the same as saying that he or she gets to transcend the score requirement of the institution requiring the TOEFL.

Here are some tips for acing the TOEFL:

1.       Practice wisely, not blindly. A common mistake in test prep is practicing again and again without analyzing the test itself and the results of the practice. This will not help much, as all the test-taker is doing is prolonging the preparation process. When doing practice exams, remember that it is very important to analyze the techniques used to answer questions, as well as your personal strengths and weaknesses in relation to the TOEFL. This will give you a better grasp on what else you need to do to increase your score.

2.       Use English properly every time. Those who do not need much preparation for international English exams are usually those who have been using English properly their whole lives. You see it in how they communicate – if they have to speak in English, they do so with an air of solemnity for Grammar and word usage. Even their posts on social media are grammatically accurate. How you use English in everyday life is a habit. This habit is what you take with you during the exam.

3.       Learn the tips and tricks. English proficiency aside, we must remember that the TOEFL is first and foremost an exam, and just like any other exams, there are certain techniques that test-takers may use to their advantage. Knowing how to properly attack a question to satisfy the requirements of the test is important. You can scour the Internet for these tips, or better yet, go to an expert.

4.       Stock up on stock knowledge. The common problem of test takers in the Writing and Speaking part of the test is that they lack ideas. The solution is simple: get more ideas. You can do this by reading, reading, and reading more. You can also do this by other means of gathering information like talking with other people and getting their opinion.

Acing the TOEFL is no mean feat, but if you are determined and you are willing to do the work, they you have a chance, for sure.

Good luck!

Why Choose the TOEFL

This is a mirror article to Options Part 1, which explores the pros of choosing the IELTS, if you are given the choice of which English proficiency exam to take. You may want to check that out as well.

For this article, we will be discussing the advantages of TOEFL over other international tests of English. There are four: the IELTS, the TOEIC, PTE Academic, and the TOEFL. The TOEFL and the IELTS are by far the most popular. Most likely either one of these two would be required. In some cases, a candidate may choose which test to take.

Despite testing only one thing – English communication skills – these two exams are quite different.

Here are some advantages the TOEFL has over other English tests.

1.       The TOEFL is done through the computer. Those who do not like writing long hand, or do not have legible hand-writing or simply slow would most likely benefit from taking the TOEFL. The exam is done through the computer, and requires only the basic proficiencies such as typing. Those who can easily use the computer may find taking the TOEFL more comfortable than taking the other pen-and-paper exams.

2.       Since the TOEFL is done through the computer, the speaking test is conducted through one as well. This is beneficial, especially to those who may find it difficult to speak with an interviewer. While it is true that the computer records the test-taker’s answers to be graded later, the absence of an actual examiner may put test-takers at ease. The performance would be better.

3.       The TOEFL primarily uses American English. For Filipinos who have been exposed to American English since childhood, many of us would be more comfortable in listening and comprehending the recordings used for the exam. This is significant, because these skills will not just be utilized in the Listening section of the exam. Remember that the TOEFL is an integrated test – meaning the listening skill is also incorporated in the Speaking and Writing tests.

4.       The TOEFL is specifically geared to academic English assessment. Students would find the TOEFL a very close approximation of the English requirements in the academe. Taking the TOEFL does not only serve as a precise assessment, it is also a sneak peak on the communication skills required in a university or college setting.

These are some of the reasons why you would want to choose TOEFL over other English test. If you find that these are applicable to you and your skill set and needs, then perhaps you will benefit from this exam.

Good luck!

Useful Expressions for TOEFL Writing and Speaking

The TOEFL test is a test of English proficiency which assesses a candidate based on the needs of the academe. This means that it does not only look into the accuracy Grammar and the use of words when expressing, the TOEFL also considers what we call coherence. These means that relationships between and among ideas are explicit. This can also mean that ideas flow smoothly into one another.

Cohesion can be achieved with the use of transition words and phrases. Here are common expressions used to create a smooth exposition for writing and speaking. They are grouped according to use.

1.       Enumeration of Ideas

Example:

First, second, last            Another               Also

“There are several reasons for near-normal occurrence of flooding in Metro Manila. First, the drainage systems are blocked off by trash. Another reason is the ineffective flood control projects. Lastly, there is the questionable budget use when it comes to flood control programs.”

2.       Chronology of events

Example:

After                     Before                  During                  While                  

Before the water rises, it would be prudent for the local government to suspend classes, especially for children. Suspending work after students and employees have gone to schools and workplaces would only expose them further to the dangers of heavy rains. During one of the worst flooding in 2009, the Ondoy, this was what happened. Government suspended classes and work while people were already in the middle of what they were doing. As a result, many people were stranded.

3.       Cause and Effect

Because               as a result           so           due to                   consequentially

“Because the storm intensified the monsoon, the metro experienced severe flooding.”

“There are problems in check and balance. As a result, it was quite easy for corrupt officials to steal the people’s money.”

4.       Presenting contradicting ideas

Example:

Even though                      Although                             But                         Despite

“Even though there are measures to prevent flooding and address its effects, these measures will be useless if not funded properly.”

“The government has issued a mandatory evacuation order, but the people in flood-prone areas refused to leave their homes.”

5.       Concluding ideas through summarization

In conclusion                     To summarize                   To wrap it all up              

“In conclusion, there are three primary reasons for the improvement of disaster management: to deliver to the people the quality service their money funded, to prevent destruction of property, and to prevent the loss of lives.”

These transition words are very important in creating a smooth transition of ideas, which is a criteria in the writing and speaking part of the TOEFL. Use them well. There are a lot more words and phrases that you can use. Ask your teacher about them.

Good luck!