As of September 2005, a new, Internet-based version of the TOEFL® test is now the dominant version of the TOEFL given, Except in rare circumstances, the TOEFL paper-based test is no longer given . It tests all four language skills that are important for effective communication: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
Some questions require test takers to combine more than one skill: To succeed academically in English-speaking colleges and universities, students need to be able to combine their language skills in the classroom. Integrated questions, or “tasks,” in the new test will help learners build the skills and confidence needed to communicate effectively in the academic environments they plan to enter. The new integrated tasks will ask test takers to :
- Read, listen, and then speak in response to a question
- Listen and then speak in response to a question
- Read, listen, and then write in response to a question
The new TOEFL test includes a Speaking section. This section includes six tasks, and test takers wear headphones and speak into a microphone when they respond. The responses are digitally recorded and transmitted to ETS’s online Scoring Network where human scorers rate them. The scorers are carefully monitored for accuracy, so test takers and score recipients can be assured of the reliability of the Speaking scores.
The writing section has been expanded. The new test requires test takers to write a response to material they have heard and read, and to compose an essay in support of an opinion. Human scorers also rate the responses to the writing tasks via EST’s Online Scoring Network.
Then new test is about 4 hours long. All sections will be completed in one day, so there is no need to travel to the test center twice. Note taking is allowed. Test takers can take notes throughout the test. The new scores help to explain the test taker’s English language ability.
ETS provides comprehensive scoring information that will include scores for four skills and a total score. Competency descriptors for each skill and level are available at www.ets.org/toefl and our publications. These descriptors help to explain what the new scores mean. In addition, test takers will receive helpful performance feedback on their score reports.
Furthermore, the new scores will be reported online. Beginning in September 2005, test takers will be able to view scores online 15 business days after the test, as will as receive a copy of their score report by mail. Colleges and universities will be able to view online scores starting in 2006, but they will continue to receive scores via their current method of delivery.
To Register for your TOEFL Examination, Go to http://www.ets.org
