TOEFL Integrated Writing Task: Tips, Strategies, and Sample Essays for Success

Preparing for the TOEFL Integrated Writing Task can be challenging, but with the right tips and strategies, you can achieve a high score. The TOEFL Integrated Writing Task assesses your ability to combine information from a reading passage and a listening clip to create a well-structured, cohesive essay. This comprehensive guide will explore essential techniques, provide valuable tips, and share sample essays to help you master the TOEFL Integrated Writing Task.

Whether you’re aiming to improve your TOEFL writing skills or need a top score for your academic goals, our expert advice will give you the edge you need to succeed.

There’s no strict limit on the length of your TOEFL iBT writing integrated task response, but aiming for 150 to 225 words is recommended for an effective answer. Consistent practice with TOEFL-integrated writing examples can boost your score to 26 or higher in the writing section.

In this section of the TOEFL exam, you will be presented with a passage to read and a lecture to listen to. The passage typically provides background information or an argument related to an academic topic, while the lecture offers additional information, challenges the ideas presented in the passage, or provides examples to support or oppose the argument.

Your task is to write a response that combines both the information from the reading passage and the lecture. You must demonstrate your understanding of the main points, identify the relationship between the ideas presented in the passage and the lecture, and effectively convey your thoughts in a coherent and organized manner.

The Integrated Writing Task assesses your ability to:

• Comprehend written and spoken material: You need to understand the main points, supporting details, and the relationship between ideas presented in both the reading passage and the lecture.
• Synthesize information: You must synthesize information from the reading passage and the lecture to form a cohesive response that demonstrates your understanding of the topic.
• Organize ideas effectively: Your response should have a clear structure, with an introduction, body paragraphs that address key points, and a conclusion summarizing your main ideas.
• Use appropriate language and grammar: Demonstrating a strong command of academic vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structure is essential for conveying your ideas clearly and effectively.

Solve Free TOEFL Practice Papers:

Students who want to study overseas have to be the ones who practice writing sample papers and hone their skills. Candidates may use the integrated task writing TOEFL questions below for this purpose.

Question 1: Summarise the essential points mentioned in this passage and give inputs according to what is mentioned in the lecture.

Sample Reading Passage:

The water on the west coast of North America used to contain several Sea Otters (small mammals), starting from California to Alaska. However, in these few years, the population of Sea Otters on this Alaskan coast has rapidly declined. Moreover, this has started directly affecting its coastal ecosystem because of its important role in maintaining a balance. With several concerns rising now, many investigators have started investigating this matter. They found it was mainly because of two reasons. One is due to attacks by predators, and the second is environmental pollution.

Environment pollution formed one of the reasons because of the fact that there is a pollution source on the Alaskan coast, i.e., oil rigs. Also, investigators took water samples to test the chemical content in it. The result was high enough to affect the immune system of water creatures, which may result in death.

Another piece of evidence pointing out water pollution as its main culprit was a similar case of decline in other sea mammals, like the seal. This proved that whatever was causing the death of Sea Otters was also taking the lives of other sea mammals. Two things can affect an entire species. It can either be water pollution or a large water predator like orcas.

Finally, researchers also blamed the pollution hypothesis for explaining the uneven decline of Sea Otter. In other words, due to ocean currents and other natural factors, the pollution may have concentrated unevenly along the coast resulting in the death of mammals in that part.

Question 2: Summarise the belief of the lecturer and how they relate to this reading passage given below.

Sample Reading Passage:

The International Astronomical Union Conference declared the inexistence of Pluto planet on 24th August 2006. It was initially discovered by scientists in 1930. It is when they were searching for the cause of what was interfering with the orbit of Uranus planet. At first, researchers believed Pluto was of the same size as the earth but later found it was even smaller than our earth’s moon and other moons as well.

Now there are thousands of planetary objects found in space similar to Pluto, like Eris, which is even a bit larger than Pluto. So, choosing to reclassify Pluto as one of the dwarf planets acknowledges that science is making progress. While it is disheartening news for Pluto planet lovers, people at large have accepted its lost status. Moreover, when it comes to today’s generation of students, they will know that currently, there are only eight planets, and Pluto was never a part of them.

The TOEFL Integrated Writing Task covers a wide range of topics, reflecting the types of subjects encountered in academic settings. While the specific topics may vary from test to test, there are several common themes that frequently appear.

Read More: TOEFL Writing Topics

The TOEFL Integrated Writing Task follows specific rules and guidelines that test takers must adhere to. Here are the key rules for the TOEFL Integrated Writing Task:

• Word Limit: The Integrated Writing Task typically has a word limit of 150-225 words for the response. It’s essential to stay within this word limit to avoid penalties.
• Response Format: The response should be in essay format, consisting of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Each paragraph should serve a distinct purpose and contribute to the overall coherence of the essay.
• Response Content: The response must integrate information from both the reading passage and the lecture. It should demonstrate an understanding of the main points, arguments, and relationships between the two sources.
• Use of Own Words: While it’s acceptable to use some phrases or terminology from the reading passage and the lecture, the majority of the response should be in the test taker’s own words. Paraphrasing is encouraged to demonstrate comprehension and critical thinking skills.
• Citing Sources: Test takers are not required to cite specific sources or provide bibliographic information for the reading passage or the lecture. Instead, they should focus on accurately representing the information and ideas presented in both sources.
• Grammar and Language: The response should demonstrate proficiency in grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure. Clear and concise language should be used to convey ideas effectively.

Understanding the Task The TOEFL iBT test is primarily for those aiming to study in foreign universities. It evaluates your ability to comprehend the main ideas presented in lectures and texts. Proficiency in understanding spoken and written English is crucial for those planning to travel or work abroad or with English-speaking individuals in their home country.

1. In the writing section, you’ll read a passage of around 250-300 words and listen to a 1-2 minute lecture, both covering the same academic topic from different perspectives. You’ll then need to write a 150-225 word response linking the reading and listening passages.
2. Taking Notes While reading and listening, take notes to remember the main ideas and their connections.
3. Use Keywords Avoid writing full sentences, especially while listening, to save time. Use symbols to represent ideas and templates to structure your notes efficiently.
4. Practice Practice taking notes while reading or listening to science-related TED talks. Utilize websites offering free TOEFL integrated writing practice tests for structured academic passages akin to the test content.
5. Structured Note-taking with Tables Draw a table before reading or listening to save time and organize your notes effectively.
6. Stay Calm While Listening Remain attentive, take note of keywords and transitional words, and observe how the lecture relates to the passage. There’s no option to replay the passage.
7. Organize Your Writing Spend 1-2 minutes planning your response and divide it into 4-5 paragraphs following a structured format:
   1. Introduction: State the main topic and connection between passages.
   2. Body Paragraphs: Present main ideas from the text and connect them to ideas from the lecture.
   3. Conclusion: Summarize differing perspectives from the two sources.
   4. Use connectors to enhance the structure and logic of your writing.
   5. Language Considerations Maintain a consistent tense, avoid spelling and grammar errors, adhere to the word count, avoid passive voice, and refrain from stating personal opinions.
8. Editing Allocate 1-2 minutes to proofread your work for spelling and punctuation errors, as major revisions aren’t feasible.

TOEFL iBT Integrated Writing Samples Utilize TOEFL sample papers and integrated writing task practice sets to familiarize yourself with the exam format and topics. Expand your vocabulary by reading newspapers, magazines, and other materials for effective TOEFL integrated writing practice.

Read More: TOEFL Writing Tips

The TOEFL Integrated Writing Task requires a structured and organized approach to effectively convey your ideas and analysis. A well-structured response not only helps you articulate your thoughts clearly but also demonstrates your ability to comprehend and synthesize information from both the reading passage and the lecture. Here’s a recommended writing structure for the TOEFL Integrated Writing Task:

1. Introduction

Start with a brief introduction that provides context for your response. Summarize the main topic or argument presented in the reading passage and the lecture. Clearly state your thesis or main idea, indicating how you will address the relationship between the reading and the lecture.

Example: “In the reading passage, the author discusses [topic], asserting that [main argument]. However, the lecturer challenges this viewpoint by presenting [counter argument]. In this essay, I will examine the relationship between the reading passage and the lecture to determine [thesis statement].”

2. Body Paragraphs

Develop your response with two or three body paragraphs, each focusing on a different aspect of the relationship between the reading passage and the lecture. Start each body paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main point or argument you will discuss. Provide specific examples, details, and evidence from both the reading passage and the lecture to support your points. Analyze the similarities and differences between the information presented in the reading passage and the lecture. Use transition words and phrases to connect your ideas and ensure coherence within and between paragraphs.

Example:

• Topic Sentence: “One key point raised in the reading passage is [topic].”
• Supporting Details: “For example, the author mentions [specific detail or evidence from the passage].”
• Analysis: “This demonstrates [interpretation of how the detail supports the main argument].”
• Transition: “In contrast, the lecturer provides a different perspective on [topic].”
• Supporting Details: “During the lecture, it is mentioned that [specific detail or evidence from the lecture].”
• Analysis: “This challenges the argument made in the reading passage because [explanation of how the detail contrasts with the passage].”
• Repeat this structure for each body paragraph, focusing on different aspects of the relationship between the reading passage and the lecture.

3. Conclusion

Summarize the key points you’ve made in your response. Reinforce the relationship between the reading passage and the lecture, highlighting any significant insights or conclusions. End with a closing statement that reinforces your thesis and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Example: “In conclusion, while the reading passage argues [main argument], the lecture provides compelling evidence to suggest [alternative perspective]. By considering both viewpoints, it becomes clear that [reiterate thesis statement]. Further research may shed additional light on this complex issue.”

Here are some sample prompts that reflect the type of tasks you might encounter in the TOEFL Integrated Writing section:

Sample Prompt

Reading Passage: Discusses the benefits and drawbacks of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture.

Lecture: Challenges the reading passage by highlighting potential health risks and environmental concerns associated with GMOs.

Sample Response Analysis:

a. Introduction: Summarizes the main points of the reading passage and the lecture, and states the thesis.

Example: “The reading passage outlines the benefits of GMOs in agriculture, such as increased crop yields and resistance to pests. However, the lecture raises concerns about the potential health risks and environmental impact of GMOs.”

b. Body Paragraphs

Paragraph 1: Addresses the benefits mentioned in the reading passage and the health risks highlighted in the lecture.

Example: “The reading passage claims that GMOs can lead to larger and more reliable crop yields. Conversely, the lecture argues that GMOs might pose health risks, citing studies that have found potential allergenic effects.”

Paragraph 2: Discusses the environmental impact.

Example: “While the reading passage suggests that GMOs can reduce the need for pesticides, the lecture counters this by pointing out that GMOs could harm biodiversity and lead to the development of pesticide-resistant pests.”

c. Conclusion: Restate the thesis and summarizes the main points.

Example: “In conclusion, although the reading passage emphasizes the agricultural benefits of GMOs, the lecture presents significant health and environmental concerns that cannot be overlooked.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, to score highly on the TOEFL exam and prove your academic English competence, you must understand the TOEFL Integrated Writing Task. You can successfully prepare for this difficult section of the test by keeping to a clear and structured writing structure, understanding the common topics, and practicing with sample papers. Don’t forget to concentrate on integrating the knowledge from the reading passage and the lecture, clearly expressing your thoughts, and practicing frequently using a variety of prompts. You will be prepared to take on the TOEFL Integrated Writing Task with confidence and get the scores you want if you put the ideas and advice in this resource to use.

Also Read,

What is the TOEFL Integrated Writing Task?

The TOEFL Integrated Writing Task requires you to read a passage, listen to a lecture, and then write an essay that synthesizes information from both sources.

What are common topics for the Integrated Writing Task?

Common topics include education, science and technology, arts and culture, social issues, health and wellness, environment, and globalization.

How should I structure my response?

Your response should include an introduction, body paragraphs that address key points from the reading and lecture, and a conclusion that summarizes your main ideas.

Where can I find sample papers for practice?

Sample papers can be found on official TOEFL websites, in prep books like “The Official Guide to the TOEFL iBT Test,” and on educational websites like Magoosh and Kaplan.

What strategies can help me succeed in the Integrated Writing Task?

Effective strategies include taking detailed notes, clearly organizing your essay, using transition words for coherence, and practicing with a variety of prompts.