1. TOEFL Speaking Task 1 – Independent Task

In these questions, candidates will be asked to decide between two options. They can choose any option but must support the choice with reasons. It is okay to prefer one over the other until it is backed with precise supportive facts and reasons. Candidates may encounter the following question types –

• Agree or Disagree – To what extent does one agree or disagree with a statement? If an individual is asked such a question, the goal should be to back his or her belief with reasons.

Example: Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? With the advent of entertainment-focused technology, fewer books are read by people than before. 

• Preference – Would you rather choose an A or B, and why? These questions do not always ask about imaginary situations, but they do ask which option you prefer and why. Nevertheless, the choice should be backed by reasons. 

Example: Would you rather be rich or poor, and why?  

• Description and Explanation – What are your thoughts on this issue, and what evidence do you have to support them? Explain why. These types of questions must be read carefully to understand what to talk about and keep it as relevant as possible. 

Example: People sometimes undergo surgical procedures to enhance or alter their appearance. They do this to become more attractive to others. Do you think this is a good idea?

• Advantages and disadvantages – Discuss the pros and cons of an issue, then pick a side. Here, candidates must state both sides of an argument and then show why one is better than the other.

Example: Many students are asked to evaluate their professors at the end of the semester. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?

• Three Choices – Potentially, this question type will provide you with three separate choices to select between. Select one, and back the decision with reasons 

Example: Which of the following impacts environmental protection greatly? (1) Individual effort (2) Governmental regulations (3) Environmental awareness groups.

• If/Imaginary – An “If or imaginary” question asks to imagine a situation and then decide how one would feel or what one would do based on the situation. 

Example: Would you spend your money right away or save it? Use details and examples to support your choice.