Important notes from the reading

What is TOEFL?TOEFL stands for Test of English as a

Foreign Language. It is a test designed to

measure the English ability of non-native

speakers who plan to study at universities in

North America.

TOEFL iBT?iBT stands for Internet-based test.

This test focuses on testing the person’s

English ability in an academic setting.

- new speaking section

- writing section expanded

TOEFL iBT Listening FormatListening Section

2 conversations

4 lectures/discussions

34 questions (5 per conversation, 6 per lecture)

About 50 minutes

TOEFL ScoringReading 0-30Listening 0-30Speaking 0-30Writing 0-30Total Score 0 – 120

What is a passing score? There is no passing score. Every university has its own standards for admission. So, check the standards for the university you are interested in.

10 Keys to SuccessThe book mentions 10 keys that will help you get

better scores on the test.

①Increase general English knowledge

②Learn about the test

③Prepare – train for the test

④Be in good physical condition

⑤Get computer practice

10 Keys to Success① Become familiar with format and

directions of test② Be organized – don’t cram at the last

minute③ Use time wisely④ Use process of elimination for multiple

choice⑤ Relax – don’t be anxious!

p. 2-13

Important Listening SkillsUnderstanding the main ideaUnderstanding supporting ideas, factsDraw inferences - make a conclusion based

on information from the conversationIdentify the speaker’s purpose attitude (is he

angry?, is she confused?)OrderingAnalyzing charts

The TestYou will hear 2 conversations and 4 lectures

- Conversations are between 2 people. One

person is a student. The other might be another

student, librarian, professor, etc. They deal with

situations related to university life.

- Lectures take place in the classroom. There may be one speaker (the professor), or an academic discussion between the professor and students.

TimingYou have 20 minutes to answer the questions

- this does not include the listening time

- individual questions have no time limit. For

example, you can spend 5 seconds or 3 minutes

on 1 question. But you must finish the entire

section (34 questions) within the time limit.

- the entire section (listening and answering) will

take about 60 minutes

Note TakingYou should take notes while listening to the

conversations and lectures. We will practice

this important skill today!