TST Prep - TOEFL Writing Practice - Topics, Templates, and Sample Essays PDF

TOEFL Writing Practice
Topics, Templates, and Sample Essays


Topics, Templates, and
Sample Essays

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Independent Writing Topics

1. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: "It is more important for students to study art and
literature than it is to study math and science.” Provide reasons and examples to support your opinion."
(sample essay on page 11)

2. Your friend has decided to switch careers, but isn't sure which to choose. What advice would you give
them? Provide reasons and examples to support your response. (sample essay on page 12)

3. Describe an annual day in your country when you give people special gifts.

4. Describe a fear you had to overcome. How did you overcome it?

5. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: “Video games offer benefits to children”. Provide
reasons and examples to support your stance.

6. What are the characteristics of a good coach?

7. If you had to work on a project for school would you rather:

a. Work alone
b. Work with classmates
c. Work with a tutor

8. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: “It is better to read books on an electronic device
than it is to read traditional books printed on paper.”

9. Some people feel that high school students benefit from participating in organized sports, while others
feel that sports is a waste of time. Instead, students should be focused on studying. Which point of view do
you agree with and explain why.

10. You must prepare a final project. Which style would you prefer:

a. Give a class presentation
b. Design a poster
c. Write an essay

11. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: “It is better to be a follower then a leader.”

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12. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: “Every individual should spend at least a year
living in a foreign country”. Provide reasons and examples to support your opinion.

13. You are going to start a new business. Which of the following do you feel is most important to be
successful:

a. Lots of Money
b. Lots of Friends
c. Lots of Products

14. Would you prefer to go to a small university in the countryside or a large university in the city?

15. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: “Reading the newspaper or online news sources is
a waste of time”. Provide reasons and examples to support your opinion.

16. You have been given a gift of money. Which would you rather spend it on:

a. A piece of jewelry
b. A pair of concert tickets
c. An expensive meal

17. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: “Professional athletes are born with talent. You
can not train someone to be a professional athlete.” Provide reasons and examples to support your
response.

18. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: “It is always better to study with a teacher then it
is to study alone”. Support your response with reasons and examples.

19. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: “Children nowadays have too much freedom”.

20. You are going to have a new roommate next semester. Which of the following qualities is most
important to you:

a. Cleanliness
b. Humorous
c. Politeness

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Integrated Writing Topics

Integrated Question: Example 1

Directions: For this task you will read a passage and listen to a lecture about an academic topic.

You may take notes during this time. After the passages have finished, you will then be asked a question
about them. After the question, you will have 20 minutes to write your response. Effective responses are
usually between 200 to 350 words. You may look at the reading passage and your notes as you write. Keep
in mind that the question will not ask for your opinion.

You have 3 minutes to read. You may begin reading now.

The chemical compound, ethanol, has risen in recent years as the most viable alternative to fossil
fuels. Ethanol is a renewable fuel made from crops, mainly from corn in the United States, which
can power engines. There are many who argue that corn ethanol should replace fossil fuel gas as
the primary source for running cars.

One major benefit of using corn ethanol is that it uses less energy than gasoline. Using less energy
means that people can get better gas mileage while driving these more fuel-efficient cars. In the
long-run, this will be cheaper for consumers because they can drive further than they do now with
fossil fueled cars. People will spend less money on gas because they won’t have to stop to fill up as
frequently.

Another advantage of switching to corn ethanol is that it helps the American economy become less
reliant on energy sources from other countries. Petroleum is not readily available in the U.S., so it
must be imported from other countries. Depending on the foreign relations with those countries,
fuel becomes a political issue. Corn is a crop that America has in abundance. By using corn ethanol
instead, the cost of gas will decrease because now the import taxes on fossil fuels are calculated
into the price. This also means that we will be putting the money into our own economy, thus
helping local corn farmers.

One of the most attractive aspects of corn ethanol is how environmentally friendly is is when
compared to current automobile gasoline. Fossil fuels release carbon that has been stored for years
from the earth. Burning biofuels, like corn ethanol, is better for the environment because it releases
less greenhouse gas emissions. Lessening the amount of carbon emissions will help prevent global
warming and all of the other negative effects of climate change.

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Now listen to part of a lecture on the same topic you just read about

After you listen to the passage, answer the question.

Summarize the points made in the lecture, being sure to explain how they cast doubt on the specific
points made in the reading passage.

You have 20 minutes to write.

5


Integrated Question: Example 2

Directions: For this task you will read a passage and listen to a lecture about an academic topic.

You may take notes during this time. After the passages have finished, you will then be asked a question
about them. After the question, you will have 20 minutes to write your response. Effective responses are
usually between 200 to 350 words. You may look at the reading passage and your notes as you write. Keep
in mind that the question will not ask for your opinion.

You have 3 minutes to read. You may begin reading now.

People have been obsessed with saving species from extinction for decades now. It is currently one
of the highest grossing charitable causes in the world. Unfortunately, this seemingly noble cause is
plagued with problems.

First of all, saving endangered species is not the responsibility of human beings. Even though we
have the technology to track, capture, protect, and breed endangered animals, that doesn't imply
that we should actually do it. There are plenty of species that have reduced in numbers from natural
occurrences in their ecosystem, and that has nothing to do with humans. There are many problems
in the world and we should focus our energy and resources on other matters besides species
restoration.

Attempting to save endangered species stems from a desire to keep things stable. This is unnatural,
and the animal kingdom has done just fine without our help throughout history. Thanks to natural
selection, most species that have ever lived has already gone extinct, so this is not a new
phenomenon. In fact, it is better for the sake of evolution to allow creatures to go extinct. For
instance, if it hadn’t been for the extinction of the dinosaurs, we mammals would never have had an
opportunity to flourish. Extinction is a part of the natural process of evolution and we shouldn't get
involved in it.

Another important factor to consider is the cost of saving these endangered species. It cost millions,
sometimes billions of dollars for governments and organizations to protect these organisms. Saving
endangered species has no real benefit, except to help researchers study and learn about their
behavior. In regards to the ecosystem, plants, insects and animals continue to survive and thrive
even after a specific species disappears. While studying endangered species may provide some
insights to scientists, the cost of keeping these animals in existence can not be justified for research
purposes alone.

6


Now listen to part of a lecture on the same topic you just read about

After you listen to the passage, answer the question.

Summarize the points made in the lecture, being sure to explain how they cast doubt on the specific
points made in the reading passage.

You have 20 minutes to write.

7


TOEFL Writing Templates

Point-by-Point Integrated Writing Template

The article introduces the topic of (general topic). More specifically, the writer discusses (stance
of the author on the topic). The lecturer in the listening passage disagrees. He believes that
(stance of the professor on the topic) and attacks each of the claims made in the reading.

In the reading, the author begins by stating that (first point made to support stance). The
lecturer, however, disagrees. He states that (first counterargument by the professor). He goes
on to say that (additional detail about first counterargument).

The author also claims that (second point made to support stance). Again, the lecturer believes
there are flaws in the writer's argument. The speaker holds that (two sentences about the
professor’s second counter argument).

Another reason why the author feels that (restate stance of author) is that (third point made to
support stance). The professor in the listening passage is doubtful that this is accurate. He
suggests that (two sentences about the professor’s third counter argument).

To sum up, both the writer and professor hold conflicting views about (general topic). It's clear
that they will have trouble finding common ground on this issue.

Block Integrated Writing Template

of the author on the topic). The lecturer in the listening passage disagrees. He believes that
(stance of the professor on the topic) and attacks each of the claims made in the reading.

In the reading, the author begins by stating that (first point made to support stance). She goes
on to say that, in fact, (second point made to support stance). To further strengthen her
argument, the writer provides another point of support. She posits that (third point made to
support stance).

The lecturer has a problem with each and every point made by the author. He starts out by
making the point that (first counterargument by the professor, with details). Further still,
(second counterargument by the professor, with details). On top of it all, the professor
continues his argument by claiming that (third counterargument by the professor, with details).

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Expansion Template

I can say with 98% certainty that the listening passage will cast doubt on the content of the reading
passage. I have never seen an actual TOEFL test that followed the expansion format, but once in a while a
student reports encountering one of these question types. I have added this template, just in case you are
curious how to write an integrated essay when the lecture supports the reading.

of the author on the topic). The lecturer in the listening passage agrees with the author. In fact,
the points made by the professor strengthens (restate author’s stance).

In the reading, the author begins by stating that (first point made to support stance). The
lecturer supports this point by explaining that (first additional point by the professor). He goes
on to say that (another detail about first supporting point).

The writer also claims that (second point made to support stance). Again, the professor finds a
way to support the author’s example. He/she holds that (two sentences about the professor’s
second supporting point).

Another reason why the author feels that (restate stance of author) is that (third point made to
support stance). The lecturer shows the truth of the reading because (two sentences about the
professor’s third supporting point).

To sum up, both the writer and professor made strong points to support their stance. It’s clear
that both of them see eye to eye on this important issue.

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The Independent Writing

There is no shortage of opinion on (paraphrase the question topic). In my opinion, (your stance
on the topic). I feel this way for two main reasons, which I will explore in the following
paragraphs.

First of all, (first reason for your opinion). (1-3 sentences further explaining your first reason) My
personal experience is a good example of this. (3-5 sentences describing a personal example to
support your reason). As a result, (effect of your personal example). For this reason,
(concluding sentence that connects your personal example back to your stance on the topic).

Secondly, (second reason for your opinion) (1-3 sentences further explaining your first reason).
Drawing from my own experience, (3-5 sentences describing a personal example to support
your reason). Moreover, (additional detail of your personal example). It's certainly clear to see
why (concluding sentence that connects your personal example back to your stance on the
topic).

In conclusion, (restate your stance on the topic). This is because (restate the two reasons for
your opinion).

***Note that this template requires two personal examples, but you can also use examples of anecdotes
of stories you heard from family, friends, newspapers or on television. Most TOEFL teachers encourage
personal examples because they are easier to tell and more persuasive to the reader, but you can still
score high without them.

10


Answer Key
Transcripts and Sample Essays

11


Independent Sample Essay #1

1. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement: "It is more important for students to study art and
literature than it is to study math and science.” Provide reasons and examples to support your opinion."

There is no shortage of opinion on whether it is better for students to learn art and literature or math and
science. In my opinion, I disagree with the statement; I think it is more important for people to study math
and science. The following paragraphs will explain my two major reasons for this opinion.

First of all, science and math are more valuable than art and literature because knowledge of math and
science is necessary for understanding and advancing technology. Technology has led this world to
become extremely interconnected. The internet, cell phones and airplanes are all technological advances
that people use everyday and would not be possible without students of math and science inventing them.
I heard a story on the news once that illustrates my point quite well. Used plastic is overflowing in landfills
and polluting the seas. However, clever scientists have found interesting ways to reuse wasted plastic. In
India, they mix thrown out plastic waste with asphalt and use it to pave new roadways. This invention is
made possible because of science and math, and it can help solve the pollution problems in the oceans. If
students do not continue to learn math and science, then more technologies of the future like this one
may never be created. In order to continue making technological advancements, it is better for students to
study science and math.

Secondly, math and science are more important subjects because people need to know them in order to
save lives keep everyone healthy. Doctors, nurses and medical technicians are all former students of
science and math. Drawing from my own experience, my brother recently went to college to become a
surgeon. He is going to be studying for eight years, and almost all of his classes will be of these types. For
example, he is now learning anatomy, algebra, biology and geometry which are all science and math
courses. When he graduates, he will have the skills to heal patients’ illnesses and injuries because he
studies these subjects. For the sake of public health, it is more necessary for students to learn math and
science than art and literature.

In conclusion, I strongly believe it is more important for students to study science and math than it is to
learn about literature and art. This is because math and science provide students the knowledge to
advance technology, and the ability to cure the sick and dying people in the world.

12


Independent Sample Essay #2

2. Your friend has decided to switch careers, but isn't sure which to choose. What advice would you give
them? Provide reasons and examples to support your response.

When children are young, they asked by adults what they want to be when they grow up. This
unfortunately, causes kids to think that they can only have one job for the rest of their life. But, in reality, it
is perfectly normal for people to want a change. If my friend was thinking about switching her career, but
she didn’t know what she wanted to do, I would give her the following two pieces of advice.

First, if my friend was considering changing her job, I would suggest that she go back to the drawing board.
The best career path is one that encompasses three values, each of which everyone gives different weight.
The work must allow her to make enough money to live comfortably, it must be something that she is
good at, and it must be something that she finds rewarding. For instance, when I was a lawyer, I was good
at my job and I earned plenty of money, but I was not proud of the work I was doing. I decided to leave the
legal field behind and pursued a job that I could actually enjoy while helping people. That is when I decided
to become a teacher instead. In order to determine which new career will be best for her, my friend will
need to do some soul-searching first and then look for a job that will include these three ideals.

Next, if my friend wasn’t sure which new career to choose, but she had a few in mind, I would advise her to
job shadow them. As they say, it is best to check the temperature of the water before diving in head first.
This happened to my aunt when she wanted to quit her job and become a policewoman. Before signing up
at the police academy, she job-shadowed. She sat in on some of the classes first, to see if she was
interested. She interviewed police officers, to find out if the job would be what she expected, and she rode
along with them while they were on duty, to learn what it would be like. Ultimately, she discovered that
being a policewoman was not the right fit for her. It was better that she job-shadowed first before making
the commitment. This is what I would advise my friend to do too.

In summary, if my friend was thinking about leaving her career, but didn’t know which one to choose, I
would first recommend to her to search for work that best fit her values. Then, I would suggest that she
job-shadows any potential jobs she is considering before she makes her choice.

13


Integrated Sample Essay #1

The article introduces the topic of corn-based ethanol. More specifically, the writer discusses the
advantages of switching from fossil fuels to this alternative energy source. The lecturer in the listening
passage disagrees. He believes that the benefits the author mentions are misleading and attacks each of
the claims made in the reading.

In the reading, the author begins by stating that drivers will get better gas mileage on corn ethanol than on
fossil fuels, and therefore save money on gas. The speaker, however, disagrees. He states that the
production of corn ethanol is very expensive. He says that in order to make for the costs to create and
distribute this biofuel, the price of ethanol gas will increase. Therefore, it will not be any cheaper for
consumers in the long run.

The writer also claims that making the switch to corn ethanol will help the American economy because it
will make the United States less dependent on foreign oil. Again, the lecturer believes there are flaws in
the writer’s argument. He holds instead that mass use of corn-based ethanol will hurt the economy. He
elaborates this by point out that the inevitable competition for corn by multiple consumers, including beef
and dairy farmers, will drive the price of corn up.

Another reason why the author feels that moving from traditional gasoline to corn ethanol is a good idea
is because they are more environmentally friendly than fossil fuels. The professor in the listening passage
is doubtful that this is accurate. He suggests that as more farmlands are created to support the demands
for more corn, more carbon will be absorbed by the land. This means that as these emissions will still be
released to negatively affect environment.

As you can see the author and speaker hold very different views about the use of corn ethanol.

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Integrated Sample Essay #2

The author in the writing passage discusses the subject of endangered species. In their opinion, it is
pointless to try and prevent animals from going extinct. The professor completely disagrees. He explains
that rescuing endangered species is necessary and contradicts the author on every point.

First, the author thinks that just because people have the capabilities to help restore the populations of
endangered animals, does not mean that it should be done. The lecturer rebuts this argument. He argues
that humans are the reason that most species are bordering extinction. He goes on to say that it is
mankind’s duty to protect these creatures because we are the cause by destroying their homes.

Second, the writer contends that it is natural for animals to go extinct, and therefore people should allow it
to happen without interference. Again, the speaker challenges the author. He posits that humans need to
get involved in order to save other species from going extinct. He explains that the disappearance of one
animal can have serious consequence to remaining species in that habitat.

Finally, the writer states that the expenses to help endangered animals are far greater than the benefits,
which they claim is only for research purposes. According to the professor, on the other hand, costs
absolutely outweighs the benefits. Furthermore, he suggests that the biodiversity of the natural world
provides mankind with all the resources needed to survive. He says the author cannot put a price tag on
our food, medicine and oxygen that would be jeopardized if even one endangered species goes extinct.

To sum up, both the author and the lecturer have conflicting views about on whether to save endangered
species. It is clear that they will have trouble finding common ground on this issue.

15


Integrated Transcript #1: Corn Ethanol

Using ethanol has been supported by the United States government for many years now because it is a
“homegrown” source of fuel. While the use of corn ethanol reduces the American dependence on foreign
oil, there are still many drawbacks to its use.

While gas mileage might be better, the price for biofuels won’t really save people money. Sure, corn-based
ethanol contains less energy than gasoline, but it is not cheap to produce. It takes a lot of energy to create
ethanol, from planting the corn, harvesting it, transporting it, converting it and then distributing it, so it is
actually a very expensive enterprise. Therefore, the cost to make this new energy source will cause the
price of ethanol to be more than gasoline, and to be too costly for consumers.

Another disadvantage is to the economy. Using corn as motor fuel will cause the price of corn to skyrocket.
This is not only a problem for people who buy corn for themselves, but also for farmers in the beef and
dairy industries. Corn is the main food source for cows’ feed. The demand for corn will create more
competition in the marketplace, and this means that the corn prices will increase. So, in other words, using
corn ethanol will hurt the American economy because it will make the price of corn way too high for
various consumers.

Finally, switching to corn-based ethanol isn’t actually helpful to the environment. Using this biofuel, corn
ethanol, in cars will increase the demand for corn which, in turn, will lead to more farmlands created to
supply the crops. When farmers expand their lands, the land absorbs more carbon. This means that
carbon dioxide will continue to be released into the atmosphere, destroying the ozone layer, even if
people start using carbon ethanol over fossil fuels.

16


Integrated Transcript #2: Endangered Species

Sea turtles, polar bears and giant pandas are just some of the thousands of animals in this world that are
at risk of extinction. In recent years, many people have been questioning whether it is worth the time and
money organizations spend on trying to save endangered species. And let me make my point clear,
preventing animals from extinction is absolutely necessary.

First, humans have an obligation to try to save endangered animals because it is our fault that they are
going extinct. Exploiting and destroying their habitats for resources, pollution, and over-hunting are the
major causes of animal extinction. We should take the responsibility for our actions, as we can see the
immediate effect and the long-term consequences of them. If there is anything that can be done to
prevent animals from dying by our hands, we should do it.

It is also necessary to save the endangered species of today in order to prevent other species from
becoming endangered tomorrow. When a species goes extinct, it dramatically changes the landscape of
biodiversity. All creatures are connected, so with one animal gone, the entire ecosystem is disrupted. Take,
for instance, the endangered Sumatran tiger. If these great cats become extinct, the smaller animals they
prey upon will overpopulate the forests. This can lead us on a downward spiral with more and more plants
and animals becoming endangered as well.

And, while the author thinks that the price of saving species is too high, I assure you that this noble cause
is priceless. People often take for granted the many benefits that diverse ecosystems provide. Not only do
plants and animals supply us with food, they provide us with medicine, and even the air we breathe. If we
lose just one of these endangered species, it will have serious and negative consequences on the lives of
all of us.

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TST Prep - TOEFL Writing Practice - Topics, Templates, and Sample Essays PDF

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TOEFL Writing Practice

Topics, Templates, and Sample Essays

TOEFL Writing Practice

The Independent Writing

Independent Sample Essay #1

Independent Sample Essay #2

Integrated Sample Essay #1

Integrated Sample Essay #2

Integrated Transcript #1: Corn Ethanol

Integrated Transcript #2: Endangered Species

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