The TOEFL Speaking section evaluates your ability to communicate effectively in English within academic settings, both in the classroom and in everyday interactions. In academic environments, speaking skills serve two key functions:

1. Classroom Communication – Participate in discussions, respond to questions, summarize key points from readings and lectures, and express opinions on academic topics.
2. Everyday Interactions – Engage in casual conversations, express preferences and opinions, and communicate in various campus locations such as the bookstore, library, cafeteria, or housing office.

Speaking Section Structure

• Duration: 16 minutes
• Total Questions: 4
• Task Types: 1 Independent Task, 3 Integrated Tasks

Question Types

1. Independent Speaking Task

• • Requires you to draw on personal experiences, ideas, and opinions to respond.

1. Integrated Speaking Tasks

• • Require a combination of skills such as listening and speaking or listening, reading, and speaking. These tasks mirror real-world academic interactions.

Speaking Responses

• Responses are recorded using a microphone and submitted to ETS for scoring.
• You may take notes during the Speaking section and use them when responding.
• AI scoring and trained human raters evaluate your responses based on:
  • Delivery: Clarity, pronunciation, intonation, and pacing.
  • Language Use: Grammar and vocabulary accuracy.
  • Topic Development: Coherence, completeness, and logical flow of ideas.

Note: High-scoring responses may still contain minor errors but demonstrate clear, well-structured communication.