TOEFL Academic Writing & Argumentation 2

Question 1

In the TOEFL iBT Integrated Writing task, what is the primary relationship between the reading passage and the lecture?

Accepted Answer

The lecture typically challenges or complicates the reading's main points

Answer

In the Integrated Writing task, the lecture almost always challenges, casts doubt on, or complicates the main points made in the reading passage.

Question 2

Which transition phrase is MOST appropriate for introducing a counter-argument in a TOEFL Academic Discussion post?

Accepted Answer

While [Student Name] suggests X, I would argue that...

Answer

'While [Student Name] suggests X, I would argue that...' is the most effective structure because it acknowledges the existing contribution and pivots to your own well-reasoned position.

Question 3

What is the recommended minimum word count for a TOEFL Academic Discussion response?

Accepted Answer

100 words

Answer

ETS specifies that Academic Discussion responses should be at least 100 words to be considered complete, though 150–200 words is typically needed to earn a high score.

Question 4

In academic writing, which sentence structure best demonstrates parallel construction?

Accepted Answer

The study examined costs, benefits, and societal impact.

Answer

Parallel structure requires all items in a series to use the same grammatical form — here, three nouns: costs, benefits, and societal impact.

Question 5

A strong thesis statement for a TOEFL Academic Discussion post should:

Accepted Answer

Present your specific position and briefly indicate your reasoning

Answer

A strong thesis states your specific position AND signals your reasoning, giving the reader a clear sense of where your response is headed.

TOEFL Practice Test

TOEFL Practice Test

TOEFL Academic Writing & Argumentation 2