The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) is a widely recognized standardized test designed to measure English language proficiency for non-native speakers. The TOEFL is commonly used by universities in English-speaking countries—such as the United States, Canada, and the UK—as well as by numerous institutions worldwide offering courses in English. This exam is a gateway for international students seeking admission into these institutions.
Developed by ETS (Educational Testing Service), the TOEFL has undergone various changes over the years to stay relevant. The most common format today is the TOEFL iBT (Internet-Based Test), which is administered online. Since its creation in 1964, over 30 million people have taken the test, and it is accepted by more than 11,000 institutions across 150 countries.
Structure of the TOEFL
The TOEFL iBT is divided into four sections: Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.
1. Reading Section
The Reading section lasts between 54 and 72 minutes, assessing your ability to understand academic-level texts. You will typically encounter three or four passages, each around 700-750 words, followed by multiple-choice questions. Each text is followed by approximately 10 questions, making it essential to pace yourself and allocate about 20 minutes per passage.
Some of the questions in this section are not counted toward your score. These are “experimental questions” that ETS includes for research purposes, but since you cannot tell which questions are experimental, it is best to approach each one with equal focus.
2. Listening Section
The Listening section takes between 41 and 57 minutes to complete. In this part of the exam, you will listen to several audio passages—typically 5 to 7—each followed by a set of questions. You are encouraged to take notes while listening, as this can help you retain information and answer the multiple-choice questions that follow.
Similar to the Reading section, some questions in Listening may also be experimental. These extra questions will not affect your score, but you should still answer each question carefully.
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Prepare TOEFL with LampaLing !
TOEFL preparation with Lampaling
To succeed on the TOEFL, preparation is essential. The test is designed with specific types of questions and a unique format that can be challenging without prior practice. Familiarizing yourself with these elements in advance can help reduce anxiety on test day and improve your overall performance.
Lampaling, a language-learning app, offers tools to help you prepare for the Reading and Listening sections of the TOEFL. With interactive exercises, reading passages, and listening activities, Lampaling provides a targeted approach to build the skills you need. Using Lampaling’s TOEFL preparation content helps you develop strategies for handling each type of question, from comprehension checks to detailed information retrieval.
Reading comprehension
Read the texts and answer the accompanying questions to improve your reading comprehension.
Memorising words
Enrich your vocabulary by practicing with quizzes that include words frequently used in cours, to help you memorise new terms.
Listening comprehension
Listen the texts and answer the accompanying questions to improve your listening comprehension.
Tips for taking the TOEFL
Answer Every Question: Unanswered questions are marked incorrect, so it’s always better to guess than to leave a blank.
Take Notes: Especially for the Listening section, jotting down key points during the audio passages can help you remember details for the questions.
Time Management: Each section is timed, so it’s important to pace yourself, especially in the Reading section, where you have control over how long you spend on each passage.
Practice with Sample Tests: Familiarize yourself with the format by taking practice exams. This will help you become comfortable with the timing and structure of the test.
Download now!
Prepare TOEFL with LampaLing !
By using a resource like Lampaling, you can approach the TOEFL with confidence. The app’s exercises for the Reading and Listening sections enable you to practice in a structured way.