Capítulos
Writing test
Recuerda: La sección de Writing del examen TOEFL iBT mide tu habilidad para escribir en inglés en un entorno académico y presentar tus ideas de manera clara y bien organizada.
Hay dos tareas de escritura:
- Ensayo integrado (20 minutos):
Lee un texto corto y escucha una breve conferencia, luego escribe una respuesta basada en lo que leíste y escuchaste. - Discusión académica (10 minutos):
Expresa y respalda tu opinión como si participaras en una discusión en línea en un aula virtual.
A continuación, encontrarás una serie de ejercicios que te ayudarán a mejorar tu rendimiento y practicar de forma efectiva para el examen de writing.
Ejercicios
Read each multiple-choice question carefully. Choose the answer that best completes the sentence or fits the context of the TOEFL Writing section.
Select only one answer per question
Selecciona una respuesta.
If you had to respond to this question in an academic discussion:
"Do you think college students should be required to do community service?"
Which of the following phrases would you use to begin your response?
Selecciona una respuesta.
The first option is the best choice because it presents a clear, well-supported opinion written in an academic tone. It uses a formal introductory phrase ("This is a challenging topic") and explains the reason behind the position, which shows good organization in the argument.
Which connector is most appropriate to introduce a contrasting idea in a TOEFL essay?
Selecciona una respuesta.
"However" is the correct answer, as it means "sin embargo" and is a connector specifically used to introduce an idea that contrasts or opposes the previous one. This is essential in a TOEFL essay when comparing different points of view.
Which of the following connectors is the most appropriate to show a cause-and-effect relationship in a TOEFL essay?
Selecciona una respuesta.
"As a result" is the correct option because it is used to show a cause-and-effect relationship—that is, a logical consequence of what was mentioned before.
The first part of the TOEFL writing section is the integrated writing task.
First, you will read an article, then listen to a lecture, and finally write an essay using information from both. Your essay should be about 280 words long. You will have 20 minutes to write it.
Below you will find a practice question you can use to prepare for the test.
Read the following text and then answer:
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the idea of building permanent human settlements in the deep ocean. Thanks to advancements in marine technology and underwater construction, the possibility of establishing deep-sea habitats is becoming more realistic. Advocates of ocean colonization argue that there are several compelling reasons to pursue it.
One major benefit of deep ocean colonization is the opportunity for scientific discovery. The deep ocean remains largely unexplored, and living in underwater habitats would allow scientists to conduct long-term research in marine biology, geology, and environmental science. Such close proximity to these ecosystems would enable significant advances in our understanding of Earth's most mysterious environments.
Another advantage is the potential to relieve overpopulation on land. As the global population increases, some experts suggest that creating underwater communities could provide additional living space. These colonies could offer a sustainable solution by using renewable ocean energy sources and recycling systems to support life beneath the surface.
Finally, colonizing the deep ocean could promote environmental awareness and protection. By living within marine ecosystems, people may develop a stronger sense of responsibility to care for them. This deeper connection with the ocean could inspire stronger environmental policies and conservation efforts worldwide.
What are the three main reasons the reading passage gives in favor of colonizing the deep ocean?
Selecciona una respuesta.
Correct answer: To increase fish production, generate electricity, and support military operations.
The reading highlights scientific discovery, relieving overpopulation, and increasing environmental awareness as the three main benefits.
Listen to the lecture (audio) below and then answer:
How does the lecturer respond to the idea that colonizing the deep ocean would benefit society?
Selecciona una respuesta.
Correct answer: He argues that the idea is unrealistic and that colonization could be harmful
The lecturer presents many reasons why colonizing the deep ocean is impractical and potentially damaging, directly opposing the reading's arguments.
The second part of the TOEFL writing section is the “Writing for an Academic Discussion” task. This appears as a question posted in a university forum or discussion group.
You will read a question posted by a professor, followed by two responses written by students. Your task is to read everything and then answer the question. You should write about 120 words. You will have 10 minutes to complete the entire task.
To practice this section, here is an example of an academic discussion with a question to help you understand the key points to focus on when writing your response.
Your professor is teaching a class on environmental science. Write a post responding to the professor’s question. In your response, you should
- Express and support your personal opinion.
- Make a contribution to the discussion in your own words.
Professor: This week, we’re examining the role of individual responsibility in combating climate change. Some people argue that individual actions, like recycling, using public transport, or reducing meat consumption, make a significant impact. Others believe that real change can only happen at the governmental or corporate level. What do you think? Can individual efforts truly make a difference in fighting climate change?
Lena: I believe individual actions matter. When lots of people make small changes, it adds up to a big impact. For example, if millions of people choose to eat less meat or avoid single-use plastics, demand decreases and companies are forced to adapt. Also, individual actions can inspire broader change by influencing family, friends, and communities.
Omar: I see Lena’s point, but I think systemic change is far more important. Major contributors to climate change are industries like oil and gas, and they won’t change just because some people recycle. We need stronger government regulations, international cooperation, and sustainable policies. Individual actions are helpful, but they’re not enough without top-down change.
Based on the discussion, answer: What is the main difference between Lena’s and Omar’s perspectives on fighting climate change?
Selecciona una respuesta.
Correct answer: Lena focuses on the influence of small personal choices, while Omar emphasizes the need for systemic and governmental action.
Lena supports the idea that small individual actions can add up and lead to broader societal change. Omar, however, argues that individual actions are not enough and that only large-scale governmental and industrial changes can truly address climate change.








