Below you will find a set of materials that replicates the style of the 3rd question in the iBT TOEFL speaking section. While not precisely within the format of the actual iBT, it is very close in terms of its inputs in reading and listening, and what it asks for in terms of a spoken response.
You can try out this task just for your own personal practice, or submit a recorded response using the speaking recorder applet that follows the reading and listening materials. Responses will be posted on this page in the near future for people to listen to and compare.
READING:
Look at the following notice distributed to parents, students and staff at a junior high school. Use no more than 45 seconds to read the notice and take any notes.
Please note that starting from next month, the school will be adopting a new policy regarding physical contact between students at the school. This policy asks students to refrain from excessive touching or embracing while using the school's buildings and amenities. We all enjoy showing our affections to other people, but of late this has become something of a major distraction at this school, with students often making it to class late or blocking corridors and doorways. While at this stage the policy is not an official ban, and no formal punishment is proposed, we may consider an official ban if students continue to ignore this initial request for a little more discretion in terms of physical contact with classmates while using the school's facilities.
LISTENING:
Now watch an actual news video clip showing people discussing the notice above. Take notes while you listen to the story.
Speaking Prompt:
Choose one or more of the people from the video article and explain how they feel about the school's announcement. Also attempt to indicate the reasons (or what appear to be the reasons) for the person's opinion.
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Okay, we have eight good responses up here...
Anyone care to comment on them?
- J
Posted by: Jason | January 06, 2008 at 06:02 AM
Thank you for this! It's an excellent resource!
Posted by: Hannah | April 23, 2013 at 04:22 PM