1. SOME Thoughts FROM Justin
TOEFL INDEPENDENT WRITING
SOME Thoughts FROM Justin

2. Why is timed writing tested?
Timed writing is tested to measure your ability to take an in-class essay test.
American university classes often will have the midterm or final be an in-class essay test.
You should be able to think and write quickly to do well.

3. The TOEFL independent task
The toefl independent task is an in class essay about a familiar topic.
There is no way to study or prepare, other than doing timed writing on difficult topics.
Strong essays have:
Sentence variety and strong organization
Interesting thoughts and ideas
Details and examples

4. Topics
From my experience, there are four general topics that are used.
Education/student life
Childhood/family life
Recreation/holiday/vacation
Life/philosophy
And sometimes two of these topics are combined.

5. Types of questions There are two basic types of questions
Some people like x and some people like y. Which one do you like and why?
Many people think x. Do you agree or disagree and why?
Each question requires that you make a strong decision (thesis) and focus on supporting it with details.

6. Focus on You You should approach each essay by focusing on YOU!!!
How do you feel about the topic? What experience do you have with the topic?
Using your personal experiences to support your thesis will be the easiest and most effective approach.

7. Try to: Write a four paragraph essay.
Start with an interesting hook, but keep the introduction somewhat brief (Hook+thesis)
Focus on providing at least one specific examples in each body paragraph.
Use transitions
Write a brief conclusion with a nice final thought.