Integrated Writing Template

One of the most daunting sections of the TOEFL for many people (including me) is the 20min Essay which is also called Integrated Writing. In this section of the test you read a text
and listen to a related lecture. You have to quickly scramble notes from both the reading
and listening passages and then proceed to writing the essay.
I personally have struggled with the time aspect of this task. I just couldn't complete it in
time due to the fact that I had no structure to use. Then one of my tutors suggested using
a template and I gave it a try. Even though its always better to come up with new and
original sentences all the time, speed is vital here. So this is the template I used, note that
its not the best but at least you can complete the task in time. Also, adjustments may be
required if the information in the template doesn't match the reading and listening
passages.
20-min Essay
Introduction:
The listening and the reading passage share the same topic, but present it from two
different perspectives. While the reading states that (topic), the listening gives strong
arguments in favor of the opposite.
1st Argument
To begin with, it can be inferred from the text that .. (1-2 sentences). However, in the
lecture it is argued that .. (1-2 sentences).
2nd Argument
What is more, the reading passage claims that (1-2 sentences). In contrast, in the
listening it is implied that (1-2 sentences).
3rd Argument *not always
Last but not least, the reading states that .. (1-2 sentences). Nevertheless, the professor
casts doubt on this by saying that (1-2 sentences).
Conclusion:
All in all, the reading and the listening passages both discuss the same topic, giving
opposing arguments in favor of their point of view.
I would like to point out again that this is NOT the end-all be-all template but if you are
struggling with this task, this can set you on the right track.

The Reading-Listening-Writing Integrated Task New Template

Introduction
The article discusses the topic of [name the topic], and bases its argument on the fact that
[describe the topic]. The professor discusses articles theory/argument and casts doubts on
its validity.
First paragraph
First, the reading passage states that [x]. In contrast, the professor provides information
that [y]. Hence, he/she casts doubts on the idea that [not x].
Second paragraph
Second, the article pushes forth the idea that [x]. However, the speaker contradicts the idea
by [y]. Consequently, we can argue that indeed [not x].
Third paragraph
Finally, the professor mentions that [x]. However, the lecturer again contradicts the claim as
[y].
Conclusion
In summary, the points made in the lecture contrast with the reading. The professor
demonstrates that [point made]. Therefore we can say that the passage fails to describe
[main topic].
Independent Writing Task New Template
Introduction
Some people think that [opinion1]. Others think that [opinion2]. The issue is a controversial
one, but in my opinion a closer examination reveals that [take position] for several reasons.
I will explain my position providing examples to support my point of view.
First paragraph
One reason is [reason 1]. For example, [example 1]. Clearly, [restate position].
Second paragraph
Another reason is [reason 2]. To illustrate this point, I can write about how [example 2].
Therefore, [restate position].
Third paragraph
On the other hand, some may argue that [reason other opinion]. For example [examplex
other opinion]. However, [cast doubt other opinion].
Conclusion
In summary, while there are arguments to be made for both sides, it is clear that it is better
to [opinion1/opinion2], because all the reasons mentioned above.

The Integrated Writing Section Template

The following TOEFL iBT Integrated Writing template is the template, which I used when I
answered the question: Summarize the points made in the lecture you just heard,
explaining how they cast doubt on the points made in the reading.
Paragraph I
In this set of materials, the reading passage mentions/describes/explains the
theory/research result/....................... that ......................................................................... . On the other
hand, the lecturer is not sure/doubtful with the theory/research result/................. .
Paragraph II
According to the reading passage, the theory/research result/............... states that
............................................................................................................................................. by giving three
reasons as follows:
(1).....................................................................................................................................................................
(2).....................................................................................................................................................................
(3)......................................................................................................................................................................
Paragraph III
On the other hand/However, the lecturer/the professor in the listening passage is not sure
with the theory/research result mentioned in the reading passage by describing three
reasons as follows:
(1)......................................................................................................................................................................
(2)......................................................................................................................................................................
(3)......................................................................................................................................................................
Clues:
- The First paragraph is only the opening. So, just write it in brief.
- In the 2nd paragraph you summarize the reading passage content, but do not copy and
paste it to your writing. You should paraphrase it (use other words but it is still the same
meaning as the reading). You can also change the structure of the sentence, for example if
the statement in the reading is active voice you can make it in the passive voice. Again,
just for your attention! Do not copy paste unless you want to get zero score. And, do not
type it too much here.
- In the 3rd paragraph you should elaborate the reasons why the lecturer/the professor is
not sure with the theory/the research result. Here, you should also connect the professor
reasons with the reasons in the reading passage. Focus and give more elaboration here.
Based on my experience, I elaborate more the professor explanation here, and I got the
Good score in the Integrated Writing task. So, my conclusion (correct me if I am wrong) is
that the test rater gives more weight in this paragraph.