TOEFL Writing Task 1 Practice Question

Directions

You will have 3 minutes to read a passage about a topic. Then, you will listen to a lecture discussing the same topic from a different perspective. After that, you will have 20 minutes to write your response. Your answer will be judged on how well you summarise the lecture and explain how it relates to the reading passage. An effective response is typically between 150 and 225 words.

Reading Passage

The Benefits of Installing Solar Panels on Residential Homes

Many experts and environmental groups advocate for the widespread use of solar panels on private homes. They argue that this change brings a range of benefits, including lower energy costs, reduced environmental impact, and increased energy independence.

First, solar panels lower electricity costs for homeowners. By generating their own energy from sunlight, people can rely less on the power grid, significantly reducing their monthly utility bills.

Second, solar energy is environmentally friendly. Unlike fossil fuels, it does not release harmful emissions. Using solar panels helps reduce greenhouse gases and combat climate change.

Finally, solar power increases energy independence. Homeowners with solar systems are less vulnerable to rising electricity prices or power outages. In some areas, excess energy can even be sold back to the grid, giving homeowners more control over their energy usage and expenses.

Listening Passage

Listening Transcript

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“Although solar panels seem to offer many advantages, their actual impact is often more complicated than people realise.

First, while solar panels may reduce electricity bills, the upfront costs of installation are very high. It can take many years to recover these expenses, and not all homeowners stay in their homes long enough to benefit.

Second, although solar energy is cleaner than fossil fuels, producing solar panels still creates pollution. Manufacturing the panels involves toxic chemicals and large energy use. Also, disposing of old panels at the end of their life cycle poses environmental challenges.

Finally, the idea of energy independence is somewhat misleading. Solar energy production depends on weather and daylight, which are not reliable in all regions. On cloudy days or at night, homeowners still need to rely on the traditional power grid. This means that full independence is rarely achieved.

In short, while solar panels have some positive effects, the costs and limitations are often overlooked.”

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Question

Summarise the points made in the lecture, being sure to explain how they cast doubt on specific points made in the reading passage.

TOEFL Writing Task 1 Practice Question

Directions

Reading Passage

Listening Passage

Listening Transcript

Question

High-Scoring Answer

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