Introduction
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) measures how well non-native English speakers understand, speak, read and write the English language. One important section of the TOEFL exam is the independent writing task which requires test-takers to write a coherent essay in response to a given prompt. In this writing section, students are expected to present and discuss their perspectives on a topic and support their assertions with clear reasons and examples. Providing high-scoring TOEFL writing examples can help students prepare for this section of the exam and gain an understanding of what is expected of them in terms of structure, language use, and development of ideas. This article will discuss two TOEFL essay prompts and provide sample high-scoring responses to each one.
Sample TOEFL Writing Prompt #1
“Some people think governmental agencies should regulate companies to ensure ethical business practices. Others believe companies should regulate themselves without governmental interference. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
Sample High-Scoring Response:
This prompt presents two perspectives on how companies should monitor their own practices – either through self-regulation or external monitoring by governmental bodies. Both views have valid arguments as well as limitations.
Supporters of self-regulation argue that companies understand their industries best and are in the optimal position to establish codes of conduct without government overreach. When free from red tape, businesses can innovate quickly to solve issues. Critics note that without outside accountability, companies may be tempted to prioritize profits over social responsibilities. Instances of safety lapses, environmental pollution or discrimination could go unaddressed if left to a company’s discretion.
Alternatively, governmental oversight ensures compliance through laws and penalties. Regulators aim to protect public interests like health, safety and fair treatment. But regulation also carries costs as businesses must divert resources to compliance that could otherwise fund jobs or expansion. Excessive rules may stifle creativity and place local industries at a competitive disadvantage globally. Regulators also risk overstepping their role or applying one-size-fits-all solutions to complex situations.
Overall, a balanced approach is ideal. Core social and environmental standards set by government provide a baseline. But individual industries understand nuances and are capable of self-policing with transparency. Companies and regulators should work together cooperatively through open communication and compromise. Both respect business realities and protect societal well-being. While no system is perfect, collaborative self-regulation optimized by oversight tends to maximize benefits and minimize disadvantages for companies, customers and communities alike.
Sample TOEFL Writing Prompt #2
“Some people think more money should be spent on space exploration programs. Others believe resources would be better spent on solving problems here on Earth. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
Sample High-Scoring Response:
This prompt introduces competing views about allocating resources – whether funding should prioritize space programs or domestic issues. Supporters of both perspectives offer logical rationales.
Those who advocate increasing space budgets note the scientific and technological advancements sparked by past space initiatives. Exploration technologies have applications improving lives through satellites aiding disaster relief and navigation. Inspiring students to study STEM fields also boosts national competitiveness and capabilities. Critics counter that enormous costs fail to directly better conditions for citizens facing hunger, disease or lack of infrastructure. Unmet needs on Earth understandably take priority for taxpayers.
At the same time, neglecting space risks losing international standing and long term benefits. Continuous technological progress energized by exploration drives whole economies and jobs. If costs are distributed sensibly, citizens gain twice – from space’s uplifting mission as well inspiring pursuit of science. Overall welfare increases as discoveries enhance quality of life. But it is also true that governments obligated first to basic security and welfare of citizens.
A balanced strategy considers both perspectives and best serves people overall. Targeting a reasonable annual increase in space funding can stimulate research but reserve most resources addressing urgent hardships. Cooperation between governments and private sector can maximize resources through reduced costs. Overall, a measured approach to space exploring humanity’s future need not preclude also investing in our planet and society today. With understanding of multiple viewpoints, balanced policies can reap rewards across sectors for generations.