TOEFL Writing Task 1 [Integrated Task] – Practice Test #048

This TOEFL Writing Task 1 (Integrated Writing) practice test provides an authentic experience with a real reading passage and a corresponding audio lecture. Follow the instructions carefully to simulate the exam and assess your skills accurately.

TOEFL Integrated Writing Detailed Instructions

Read the passage: You will read an academic passage on a topic, usually about 3 minutes.
Listen to the lecture: After reading, you will hear a lecture on the same topic, presenting a different perspective or additional information. You will not be able to see the reading passage while listening.
Take notes: While reading and listening, take notes on the key points and main ideas. Most of your focus should be on the lecturer since the passage is already available for reference.
Refer back to the reading: You can review the reading passage after the listening portion is complete.
Stay objective: Avoid adding personal thoughts, agreeing or disagreeing with the speaker, or evaluating the quality of their arguments. The key is to remain neutral and accurately report what each source says. Think of yourself as a reporter: your task is to explain what each side claims, how their points relate to each other, and how the lecture challenges the reading.
Organize clearly and have a plan: Use clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Personally, I prefer writing a concise introduction that presents both sides and briefly states their main reasons, followed by three body paragraphs, each focusing on one point and discussing it from both perspectives. If done properly, there’s no real need for a conclusion, especially since this isn’t a personal or opinion-based essay.
Write your response: Summarize the main points from the lecture and explain how they relate to or challenge the points in the reading passage.
Stay within the word limit: Your response should be 150-225 words.
Proofread: Ensure your grammar, spelling, and sentence structure are accurate.
Submit your writing: Use the form below to privately submit your writing for review, or post it publicly in the comment section at the bottom of the page.
Feedback (optional): Order detailed written analysis or a video session to review your response using the official TOEFL writing criteria and identify specific areas for improvement.

Reading Passage

In the 1950s, Torreya taxifolia, a type of evergreen tree that was once abundant in Florida, began to face a decline. The exact reason for this decrease remains uncertain, but if no action is taken, Torreya could soon become extinct. Experts are evaluating three approaches to address the decline of Torreya.

The first approach involves reintroducing Torreya to its historical habitat in northern Florida. This area, which has a unique microclimate, was ideal for Torreya’s growth. A microclimate refers to a localized weather condition that differs from the surrounding area. Northern Florida’s microclimate is cooler and wetter compared to the generally warm and dry conditions of the region. Scientists have been working on planting Torreya seeds in the coolest and most moist parts of this microclimate.

The second approach considers relocating Torreya to a different region entirely, far from its original microclimate in Florida. Torreya seeds and young trees have been successfully cultivated in northern forests where the temperatures are cooler. Some researchers believe that Torreya might have historically thrived in such cooler areas, so by moving it now, through a method known as assisted migration, humans would be helping Torreya return to a more suitable environment for its survival.

The third approach involves conserving Torreya in research facilities. Seeds and young trees could be moved from their natural habitats to controlled environments where they can be closely monitored. This method would allow scientists to protect the species and conduct research to ensure its continued survival.