The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is a test conducted and accepted worldwide as a measure of the ability of an individual who speaks English as a second language to understand and follow instruction in English. A good TOEFL score is a primary requirement at most English-speaking universities across the globe. The score is valid for a period of two years and may be required for scholarship programs while applying for visa or for government jobs.
History
The TOEFL was introduced in 1964; ever since, more than 23 million candidates have taken the test. The Internet-based test was introduced in 2005 and has since progressively replaced the computer-based test (CBT) and the paper-based test (PBT). One of the biggest advantages of the online TOEFL test is the reduction in waiting time at the test. The days when a candidate had to book a seat up to six months in advance are long gone, and the waiting period is now only a maximum of four weeks.
Sections
The reading section consists of three to five reading passages and a few questions based on them. The passages are similar to those found in undergraduate-level textbooks and require an understanding of rhetorical functions like arguments, compare and contrast and cause and effect.
The listening section tests an individual's ability to listen to conversations and lectures in classroom settings and tests an individual's ability to understand spoken English. Candidates have to answer questions based on what they hear; he can take notes while listening and refer to them when answering the questions.
The speaking section evaluates a candidate's ability to effectively take part in conversations and communicate their ideas in a clear and coherent manner. The section consists of a total of six tasks out of which two are independent and four are integrated. In the independent tasks, the candidate speaks and the topics are usually tested based on their ability to speak spontaneously on a particular topic. In the integrated section, the candidate must first listen to (and/or read) short passages and then verbally answer the questions.
The writing section tests a candidate's ability to write in English and consists of two tasks. In the first task, the candidate reads a passage and listens to a speaker discussing the same issue. The candidate must then write a summary of what they read and heard. In the next TOEFL writing task, a candidate must write an essay on a particular topic along with reasons that support their arguments.
Training
There is no dearth of training for the TOEFL; countless websites provide online training in addition to classroom programs. Candidates can take mock tests or sign up for a series of TOEFL tests online to assess their preparation level for tests. Practice is key; one should strive to get familiar with the overall structure of the test and practice often to avoid any surprises.
Several books are available that cover almost all sections of the TOEFL. And most books come with CDs that you can use to prepare for the listening and speaking sections. In addition, you can join classroom programs where faculty members will help you crack the exam. Online tutorials are also available to help you prepare at your own pace. While trainers are available online, you'll have to do most of the preparation yourself.
Scoring
Each section of the TOEFL is given an equal consideration of 30 points on the iBT. A score is assigned for each individual section and for the overall test; in addition, the score includes feedback on your performance. Computers score the reading and listening sections, and ETS-certified test scorers rate the responses in the speaking and writing sections on the basis of message delivery and overall writing quality respectively. There is no pass or fail score, but there are minimum score requirements outlined by educational institutions and agencies.
Registration
You can register for the TOEFL on the Educational Testing Service website and find the testing location where you would like to test. The website will then provide you with all information including test format, dates and fees for you to choose.
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