|
As technology develops, the number of ways you can take the TOEFL test increases. Today, your TOEFL test-taking options include the Internet-Based Test (iBT), the Computer-Based Test (CBT), and the Paper-Based Test (PBT). Regardless of the testing format, the TOEFL test material will remain the same. As such, it is important that you put in the same degree of TOEFL practice for whichever TOEFL test you will be taking.
Learn more about the TOEFL iBT, CBT and PBT formats, while gaining valuable information on how to help prepare you for the TOEFL test.
What is the TOEFL Test?
The TOEFL test is a standardized test that many colleges and universities in the United States require international students to take to ensure a comprehensive understanding of English to help ensure they perform well in U.S. classrooms. Short for Test of English as a Foreign Language, the TOEFL test is divided into separate sections, and different colleges in the United States have different TOEFL score requirements that extend to the separate categories as well as in summation.
Currently, there are three types of test options available. While the material covered on the test will be the same, they vary in the degree of technology required to conduct them.
- TOEFL PBT
PBT stands for Paper-Based Test. This is the most traditional approach to taking the TOEFL test. In most cases, you will not be taking the test in paper form as the CBT and iBT formats offer more security and faster scoring results. In some locations where computers are not currently available, however, the TOEFL PBT will continue to be offered.
- TOEFL CBT
CBT stands for Computer-Based Test. Until very recently, this was the preferred method as your TOEFL test could be recorded in the most accurate way possible, while also removing unnecessary paperwork. In many places around the world, the TOEFL CBT is the format that international students will experience.
- TOEFL iBT
iBT stands for Internet-Based Test. Since its inception in 2005, the TOEFL iBT has replaced the CBT as the preferred method of taking the TOEFL test. The iBT format is the only form of the TOEFL test that contains a speaking component. This is the primary reason it has become the preferred TOEFL test among colleges in the United States as it provides the most accurate representation of a student's conversational English abilities.
TOEFL Scores
Whether you take the TOEFL in the iBT, CBT or PBT format, you will receive a TOEFL score for each of the four categories that, together, will comprise your overall TOEFL score. The categories are as follows:
- Reading
To test your English comprehension, this section will ask you to read passages from select English texts, then answer a series of multiple choice questions related to your reading. Scoring: 0-30
- Listening
Somewhat similar to the Reading section, the Listening section will offer you audio excerpts as opposed to written texts for evaluation. The excerpts will include a combination of conversational dialogues as well as sections from lectures, similar to those you might experience in a U.S. classroom. After you have listened to each excerpt, you will be given a set of multiple choice questions to answer. Scoring:0-30
- Speaking (TOEFL iBT only)
The Speaking section of the TOEFL test is designed to measure your level of conversational English. Like the Listening portion, you may listen to audio excerpts of conversations and/or lectures. After listening, you will be expected to verbally answer three questions related to your listening. Otherwise, you may be asked questions relative to your own life and experiences. You will be given a short amount of time to gather your thoughts before delivering your answer. This portion of the TOEFL test will be conducted by telephone. Scoring:0-30
- Writing
The writing section of the test, also known as the TOEFL essay, will require you to write an academic response that connects the information presented to you in the Reading and Listening sections. For this reason, it is recommended that you take notes in those previous sections. Most answers range in length from 150-225 words. You will be given 20 minutes for the Writing section of the TOEFL test. Scoring:0-30
- Total TOEFL Score
You will be given a composite score that adds your Reading, Listening, Speaking and Writing scores together. Some colleges and universities in the United States require a predetermined Total TOEFL Score, while others may have requirements for individual sections of the TOEFL test. U.S. Education Guides can help you determine the requirements for your school(s) of interest. Scoring: 0-120
More TOEFL Practice Resources
There are other ways to help prepare for the TOEFL test. In fact, many resources are culturally-based, allowing you to not only get a better understanding of the English language, but also grasp the cultural landscape of the United States before you arrive for study.
- The Internet
The Internet puts a world of resources at your fingertips. In fact, there are so many TOEFL test resources available, you may have a difficult time narrowing them all down.
- Films and Movies
English-speaking films are a great resources as they follow a plot rather than offer up lessons in isolation from actual situations. This option can help with the Listening section of the TOEFL test.
- The News
There are a number of English-speaking news sources available around the world. This helps with listening comprehension, and can also help you build a knowledge base for the Speaking section of the TOEFL test.
- People
The best way to practice your conversational English is by conversing in English. It sounds simple enough, but the temptation to slip back into your native tongue can be great. Find a friend and make a pact to only speak in English for certain periods of time.
Additional Information from U.S. Education Guides
For more valuable TOEFL test information and resources, ESL courses, and other resources, simply click on any of the helpful links below:
|
