Examinee
Handbook
S p E a k i n g & w r i t i n g
The TOEIC ® Test —
Know English. Know Success.
Table of Contents
TOEIC® Speaking Test Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
TOEIC® Writing Test Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Keyboard Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Who takes the TOEIC Speaking and Writing Tests? . . . . . 3
Why take the TOEIC Speaking and Writing Tests?. . . . . . 3
What Context Do Questions in the Tests Present? . . . . . . 4
What Score Do I Need to Pass the Tests? . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
How Are the Tests Administered? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
How Much Do the Tests Cost to Take? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
How Long Does It Take to Receive Scores After
an Administration? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Do the TOEIC Speaking and Writing Tests Measure the
Proficiency of Listening and Reading Skills Indirectly? . . 4
Which Tests Should I Take First, the Listening
and Reading Tests or the Speaking and Writing Tests? . . 4
Why Are the Test Scores Valid for Two Years? . . . . . . . . . . 4
How to Get Ready to Take the
TOEIC Speaking and Writing Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Identification Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Admission to the Test Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Registration Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Test Center Procedures and Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Dismissal from a Testing Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Sample Speaking Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Sample Writing Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Information Reported on the Score Certificate . . . . . . . . 23
Scaled Scores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Proficiency Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Rating of Speaking and Writing Responses . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Score Reliability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Test Score Data Retention. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
ETS Score Cancellation Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Testing Irregularities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Identification Discrepancies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Misconduct . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Plagiarism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Appropriate Uses and Misuses of TOEIC
Speaking and Writing Scores . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
For more information, visit us on the web at www.ets.org/toeic or contact your local ETS Preferred Associate.
A list of local ETS Preferred Associates can be found on the web at www.ets.org/toeic.
If there is no ETS Preferred Associate in your country, please contact us at either address below.
Mail:
TOEIC Speaking and Writing Educational Testing Service Rosedale Road
Princeton, NJ 08541
E-mail: TOEIC@ets.org
Copyright © 2009 by Educational Testing Service. All rights reserved.
ETS, the ETS logo, LISTENING., LEARNING., LEADING., and TOEIC are registered trademarks of Educational Testing Service (ETS)
in the United States of America and other countries throughout the world. TEST OF ENGLISH FOR INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATION
is a trademark of ETS.
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing 1
About the TOEIC® Speaking and Writing Tests
The Test of English for International Communication™ (TOEIC®) program offers English-language proficiency tests for people whose native language is not English. The new TOEIC® Speaking and Writing tests, which are delivered through the Computer, are valid assessments of a person’s ability to speak and write in English in the workplace.
They have been added to the TOEIC product line to complement the TOEIC® Listening and Reading test. Together, they provide a reliable measurement of all four English-language communication skills.
The TOEIC Speaking Test is designed to measure a person’s ability to communicate in spoken English in the context of daily life and the global workplace. The test is composed
of eleven tasks and takes approximately 20 minutes to complete. The range of ability among English learners who will take the TOEIC Speaking Test is expected to be broad; that is, both very capable speakers and speakers of limited ability can take the test. The test is designed to provide information about language ability to speakers across a range of language proficiency levels. To this end, the tasks are organized to support the following three claims.
1. The test taker can generate language intelligible to native and proficient nonnative English speakers.
2. The test taker can select appropriate language to carry out routine social and occupational interactions (such as giving and receiving directions, asking for and giving information, asking for and giving clarification, making purchases, and greetings and introductions).
3. The test taker can create connected, sustained discourse appropriate to typical daily life and the workplace.
These claims are meant to be hierarchical. A test taker who can successfully complete the tasks that support the third claim will probably be very successful at carrying out the tasks that support the first and second claims. Conversely, the tasks that support the third claim will distinguish between moderately high-level speakers and very high-level speakers.
The following table shows how the tasks in the TOEIC Speaking Test are organized.
QUESTION | TASK | EVALUATION CRITERIA |
1– 2 | Read a text aloud | ◾ Pronunciation ◾ Intonation and stress |
3 | Describe a picture | All of the above, plus ◾ Grammar, ◾ Vocabulary, and ◾ Cohesion |
4 – 6 | Respond to questions | All of the above, plus ◾ Relevance of content and ◾ Completeness of content |
7– 9 | Respond to questions using information provided | All of the above |
10 | Propose a solution | All of the above |
11 | Express an opinion | All of the above |
The TOEIC Writing Test is designed to measure a person’s ability to use written English to perform communication tasks that are typical of daily life and the global workplace. The test is composed of eight tasks and takes approximately one hour to complete. As with the TOEIC Speaking Test, the range of ability among English learners who will take
the TOEIC Writing Test is expected to be broad. The test is designed to provide useful information about test takers across a range of language proficiency levels.
The tasks in the TOEIC Writing Test are organized to support the following three claims about test taker performance.
1. The test taker can produce well-formed sentences, including both simple and complex sentences.
2. The test taker can produce multisentence-length text to convey straightforward information, questions, instructions, narratives, etc.
3. The test taker can produce multiparagraph-length text to express complex ideas, using reasons, evidence, and extended explanations as appropriate.
2
About the TOEIC Speaking and Writing Tests
Because these claims are hierarchical, task difficulty increases as the test taker progresses through the test. The first claim describes test takers at lower levels of English- language proficiency. Test takers who can successfully complete the tasks that support the second and third claims will probably be very successful at carrying out the tasks that support the first claim. At the same time, the tasks that support the third claim will distinguish between moderately high-level and very high-level writers of English.
The following table shows how the tasks in the TOEIC Writing Test are organized.
QUESTION | TASK | EVALUATION CRITERIA |
8 | Write an opinion essay | ◾ Whether the opinion is supported with reasons and/or examples ◾ Grammar ◾ Vocabulary ◾ Organization |
The TOEIC Speaking and Writing test is administered on
a standard English-language (QWERTY) computer keyboard. QWERTY is the most common modern-day keyboard layout on English-language computer keyboards. It takes
its name from the first six letters displayed at the top of the keyboard. It is recommended that you practice typing on
a QWERTY keyboard before taking the TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests.
Frequently Asked Questions About the TOEIC
Speaking and Writing Tests
• Personnel who use English in real-life work settings such as businesses, hotels, hospitals, restaurants, international meetings, conventions, and sports events
• Managerial, sales, and technical employees in international business, commerce, and industry who require English for their work
• Individuals who are preparing to enter the workplace
• Individuals who want to measure their productive skills in English
The TOEIC test is the choice of nearly five million examinees a year and is recognized by thousands of corporations and organizations. As a fair and objective measure of English proficiency, the TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests will enable you to
• verify your current level of English proficiency,
• qualify for a new position and/or promotion in a company,
• enhance your professional credentials,
• monitor your progress in English,
• set your own learning goals, and
• involve your employer in advancing your English ability.
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
Frequently Asked Questions
3
Frequently Asked Questions About the TOEIC Speaking and Writing Tests (continued)
The TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests are set in contexts appropriate for daily life and the global workplace. They include tasks that people might perform in work-related situations or in familiar daily activities that are common across cultures. The tests assess English-language speaking and writing proficiency and do not require candidates to have specialized knowledge of business.
The TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests are not the kind of tests that one passes or fails. Not every job or task requires the same level of English proficiency. The TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests measure many levels of ability, allowing people to demonstrate what they currently can accomplish
in English. The single, continuous scale also makes it possible for learners to set attainable goals and to measure their progress as their English improves. ETS does not establish score requirements for passing or failing. Each institution or agency determines its own standards.
The TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests will be administered on fixed dates at secure, Internet-based test centers. Contact your local ETS Preferred Associate for specific test dates.
TOEIC Speaking and Writing test prices vary worldwide. To inquire about pricing in your area, contact your local ETS Preferred Associate.
It takes approximately two weeks to receive your TOEIC Speaking and Writing test scores. Contact your local ETS Preferred Associate for specific dates.
Language skill levels are related because of the nature of language learning; the skills of listening and speaking or of reading and writing are often used together. For most people, there is quite a strong correlation among the four language skills. Over time, however, if you practice some
skills (for example, reading and listening) much more often than you practice others, then the correlation may change. While the TOEIC Listening and Reading tests are indirect measures of speaking and writing proficiency, the TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests are more direct measures of pro- ductive skills.
You should take the test that will give you the information or feedback that you need. For example, if you want to demonstrate how well you can speak and write in English, then you should take the Speaking and Writing tests. Similarly, if you want to provide a prospective employer with an indication of your English listening and reading skills compared with those of other candidates, then it
would be better to take the Listening and Reading tests first. From a learning point of view, it is not important which test you decide to take first.
The TOEIC Program considers your test scores valid for two years because your proficiency can improve or decline over time. For this reason, the more recent the score, the more likely it is to be a valid indication of your proficiency. To provide you and your employer with a historical summary of your scores, scores will be kept on file and reported for two years from the test date.
4
Frequently Asked Questions
Preparing to Take the TOEIC Speaking and Writing Tests
The TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests are not based on the content of any particular English course but, rather, on your proficiency—your overall ability to speak or write in English. Improvement in proficiency may take some time and is generally achieved through a combination of practice and study. The TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests do not test business knowledge, and you are not required to know specialized business and technical vocabulary beyond that of a person who uses English in everyday life and
work activities.
• Before taking the TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests, you can do several things to prepare and to improve your English proficiency. Become familiar with the test format. You can then focus your attention on the
questions themselves rather than on the format. Carefully review the test directions and the sample questions in this handbook.
• Immerse yourself in the language as frequently as possible and in as many ways as possible if it has been some time since you have had contact with English. Reading, watching TV and videos, listening to recordings, taking an English course, and speaking with friends and colleagues are some of the ways to practice English.
• Take the TOEIC Practice Online: Speaking and Writing to prepare for the tests. Contact your local ETS Preferred Associate for information.
• Your local ETS Preferred Associate also provides a test preparation book to help you prepare for the TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests. Contact your local ETS Preferred Associate for information.
All test takers must read Part 1. Depending on whether you will be testing within or outside your country of citizenship, you must also read either Part 2 or Part 3, as appropriate.
Part 1: Information for ALL Test Takers
• You must have an acceptable and valid identification (ID) with photograph to be admitted to a test center. Expired documents are not acceptable. The photograph on your ID document must be recent and recognizable. Original documents must be presented; copies are not
acceptable. ID requirements are strictly enforced. It is your responsibility to read and understand the instructions and requirements. It is not the responsibility of the test center staff or registration center to relay the policies to you.
• If you don’t have one primary ID with both a photograph and a signature, you may present two primary IDs without signatures.
• If you arrive at the test center without the required ID, the test center administrator will not admit you to the test and you will forfeit the test fee.
• When registering, you must use exactly the same name and the same spelling of that name that appears on
the primary ID document(s) you will present at the test center. Make sure to provide your entire first (given) name and entire surname (family name). Do not register under a nickname. If the name shown on your primary ID does not match the name you registered under, you will not be permitted to test.
• Check the name on your registration confirmation document. If the name does not match the name on your primary ID document, contact your local ETS Preferred Associate.
• NAME CHANGES OR CORRECTIONS WILL NOT BE MADE THE DAY OF THE ADMINISTRATION. If your name has changed for any reason, including marriage, you still must present primary ID in the name under which you registered or you will not be permitted to test.
• If the test center administrator questions the ID you present, you will be required to present additional proof of identity. If positive confirmation cannot be made,
you may be refused admission to the test center and will forfeit the test fee.
• Test center personnel will check your ID before assigning you a seat at the test center. The administrator will check your photo ID to verify that you are the person in your photo ID.
• Admission to the test center does not imply that your form of ID is valid or that your scores will be reported.
All reported cases of questionable ID are subject to review and approval by the ETS Office of Testing Integrity.
• The photograph on your ID document must be recent and recognizable. For example, a ten-year-old photograph taken during childhood is not acceptable.
Acceptable Primary Identification Documents
• Passport with photograph and signature
• Driver’s license with photograph and signature
• State identification with photograph and signature
• National ID with photograph and signature
• Military ID with photograph and signature
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
Preparing to Take the TOEIC Tests
5
Preparing to Take the TOEIC Speaking and Writing Tests (continued)
Acceptable Secondary Identification Documents
If your primary ID is missing either a photograph or a signature, you must present one of the following secondary IDs in addition to your primary ID. Secondary IDs that can be used to meet the photograph and/or signature requirements are the following.
• A government-issued ID document that has not expired, including but not limited to, passport, driver’s license, state ID, national ID, or military ID (There are some exceptions: see Unacceptable Identification Documents below.)
• Student ID
Unacceptable Identification Documents
• Any expired ID
• Draft classification card
• Credit/debit card of any kind
• Social Security card
• Learner’s permit or any temporary identification document (for example, a temporary driver’s license)
• International driver’s license
• International student ID
• Notary-prepared letter or document
• Employee ID card
• Birth certificate
• Photocopy of ID
If you are a student of middle or high school, your student ID with photograph is acceptable.
If you cannot meet the specified ID requirements or if you have questions about ID, contact your local ETS Preferred Associate.
Part 2: If Testing WITHIN Your Country of Citizenship
Only one form of primary ID is needed if your primary ID document contains a photograph and signature. Please see the list of acceptable primary ID documents (Part 1). However, if the test administrator has any concerns about the primary ID document, you will be required to present
a secondary ID from the list in Part 1.
If your primary ID does not contain your signature, you must either sign the document or present an additional ID from the list of acceptable secondary identification documents (see Part 1). The secondary ID cannot be expired and must contain a recent, recognizable photograph and your signature.
If you do not have an ID with a photograph and a signa- ture, then you must present two primary ID documents
with a photograph.
Part 3: If Testing OUTSIDE Your Country of Citizenship
You MUST PRESENT A VALID PASSPORT with photograph and signature as your primary identification document. Citizens of European Union and Schengen zone countries should see the special requirements below. If you do not meet the requirements, ETS may cancel your test scores.
If your passport is not written in English-language letters, you must also present an additional ID from the list of acceptable secondary identification documents (see Part 1) that contains a recent, recognizable photo and is in English.
If your passport does not contain your signature, you must either sign your passport or present an additional ID from the list of acceptable secondary identification docu- ments (see Part 1).
United States military personnel may present their
United States military ID cards for admission to test centers. If a military ID card does not contain a photograph and signature, a secondary ID is also required.
European Union/Schengen Zone Countries
If you are taking the test within a European Union or Schengen zone country outside of your own, you can use your valid national or European identity card if you have one. The card you present must contain a recent, recognizable photograph, your date of birth, and your signature. If your form of identification is not in English- language letters and the test administrator cannot read
the language in which it is written, you may not be allowed to test. If your official ID does not contain your signature, you must present an additional document from the list of acceptable secondary identification documents (see Part 1) that does contain your signature.
To be admitted to the test center, you must have a valid ID with photograph and signature. See pages 5–6 for details. The name given when you register must match the name on the ID document(s) you present at the test center.
Contact your local ETS Preferred Associate for registration information.
6
Preparing to Take the TOEIC Tests
On Test Day
• Dress so that you can adapt to any room temperature.
• Friends or relatives who accompany you to the test center will not be permitted to wait in the test center or be in contact with you while you are taking the test. Except for ETS-authorized observers, visitors are not allowed in the testing room while testing is in progress.
• ID verification at the test center may include thumb printing, photographing, video recording, signature comparison, or other forms of electronic ID confirmation. If you refuse to participate, you will not be permitted to test and you will forfeit the test fee. This is in addition to the requirement that you must present acceptable and valid ID.
• Other than ID, personal items are not allowed in the testing room. Before the test, you will receive instructions from test center staff regarding where to deposit items
such as cell phones, pagers, handbags, and study materials. Storage space is limited, so plan accordingly. You will not have access to your personal items during the test.
• Test centers assume no responsibility for candidates’
personal belongings.
• The test administrator will assign you a seat.
• On occasion, weather conditions or other circumstances beyond the control of ETS or the test administrator may require a delayed start or the rescheduling of your test.
In the event that a technical problem at the test center makes it necessary to cancel your test session or if it is later determined that your scores could not be reported, you will be offered the opportunity to retest free of charge or receive a full refund of the original test fee.
The following procedures and regulations apply during the entire test session, which begins when you are admitted to the test center, ends when you leave the test center, and includes breaks.
• You will be required to sign an electronic or paper confidentiality statement at the test center. If you do not sign the statement, you cannot test, and the test fee will not be refunded.
• Your picture may be taken and reproduced at your testing station. Be sure the correct photograph is displayed on your assigned testing station.
• If you need to leave your seat at any time, raise your hand;
timing of the test section will not stop.
• If at any time during the test you have a problem with your computer or for any reason need the administrator, raise your hand.
• Testing premises are subject to video recording.
• Although tests are administered under strict supervision and security measures, testing irregularities may sometimes occur. Contact your local ETS Preferred Associate as soon as possible to report any observed
behavior that may lead to an invalid score—for example, someone copying from another test taker, taking a test for someone else, having access to test questions before the exam, or using notes or unauthorized aids. All information will be held in strictest confidence.
The test administrator is authorized to dismiss you from
a test session or your scores may be canceled by ETS or the
ETS Preferred Associate for violations such as, but not lim-
ited to, the following.
• Attempting to take the test for someone else or having someone take the test for you
• Failing to provide acceptable identification
• Obtaining improper access to the test, a part of the test, or information about the test
• Using or having a telephone or cell phone in your posses- sion during the test session or during breaks
• Using any aids in connection with the test, such as mechanical pencils, pens, pagers, beepers, calcula-
tors, watch calculators, books, pamphlets, notes, rulers, highlighter pens, stereos or radios with headphones, cell phones, watch alarms, stopwatches, dictionaries, translators, PDAs, BlackBerry® devices, and any handheld electronic or photographic devices
• Creating a disturbance (Disruptive behavior in any form will not be tolerated; the test administrator has sole discre- tion in determining what constitutes disruptive behavior.)
• Attempting to give or receive assistance or to otherwise communicate, in any form, with another person about the content of the test during or after the test session
• Removing or attempting to remove any test content relat- ing to the test (Under no circumstances may test content or notes or any part of the test content be removed, repro- duced, or disclosed by any means—such as hard copy, verbally, or electronically—to any person or entity.)
• Tampering with the computer
• Leaving the test room or test center without permission
• Bringing a weapon or firearm into the test center
• Bringing food, drink, or tobacco into the testing room
• Leaving the test center vicinity during the test session
• Failing to follow any of the test administration regulations contained in this handbook, given by the test administrator, or specified in any test materials
ETS or the local ETS Preferred Associate reserve the right to take all action—including, but not limited to, barring you from future testing and/or canceling your scores—for failure to comply with test administration regulations or the test administrator’s directions. If your scores are canceled, they will not be reported and you will receive notification from ETS or the ETS Preferred Associate. You will not receive a refund.
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
Preparing to Take the TOEIC Tests
7
Sample Questions
This is the TOEIC Speaking Test. This test includes
11 questions that measure different aspects of your speaking ability. The test lasts approximately 20 minutes.
For each type of question, you will be given specific directions, including the time allowed for preparation and speaking.
It is to your advantage to say as much as you can in the time allowed. It is also important that you speak clearly and that you answer each question according to the directions.
QUESTION | TASK | EVALUATION CRITERIA |
1– 2 | Read a text aloud | ◾ Pronunciation ◾ Intonation and stress |
3 | Describe a picture | All of the above, plus ◾ Grammar, ◾ Vocabulary, and ◾ Cohesion |
4 – 6 | Respond to questions | All of the above, plus ◾ Relevance of content and ◾ Completeness of content |
7– 9 | Respond to questions using information provided | All of the above |
10 | Propose a solution | All of the above |
11 | Express an opinion | All of the above |
8
Sample Questions
Questions 1–2
Read a Text Aloud
There are two Read-a-Text-Aloud questions on the TOEIC Speaking Test. In each question, the directions and Read-a-Text-Aloud text will appear on your screen. You will hear the directions being read by the narrator. After 45 seconds, you will hear “Begin reading aloud now.” Then you will read the text, and your response will be recorded. An example is below.
Directions: In this part of the test, you will read aloud
the text on the screen. You will have 45 seconds to prepare. Then you will have 45 seconds to read the text aloud.
If you’re shopping, sightseeing, and running around every minute, your vacation can seem like hard work. To avoid vacation stress, come to the Blue Valley Inn on beautiful Lake Mead. While staying at our inn, you’ll breathe clean country air as you view spectacular sights. With its spacious rooms, swimming pool, and many outdoor activities, the inn is the perfect place for a vacation you won’t forget. The Blue Valley Inn prides itself on the personal attention it provides for every guest. The Blue Valley motto has always been “A happy guest is our greatest treasure.”
Your responses to questions 1 and 2 will each receive two scores: one for pronunciation and one for intonation and stress. Following are the scoring guides that will be used to evaluate your response.
Scoring Guide for Questions 1–2:
Pronunciation
Scoring Guide for Questions 1–2:
Intonation and Stress
SCORE | RESPONSE DESCRIPTION |
3 | Pronunciation is highly intelligible, though the response may include minor lapses and/or other language influence. |
2 | Pronunciation is generally intelligible, though it includes some lapses and/or other language influence. |
1 | Pronunciation may be intelligible at times, but significant other language influence interferes with appropriate delivery of the text. |
0 | No response OR no English in the response OR response is completely unrelated to the test. |
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
Sample Questions
9
Sample Questions (continued)
Question 3
Describe a Picture
There is one Describe-a-Picture question on the TOEIC Speaking Test. The directions and the picture will appear on your screen. You will hear the directions read by the narrator. After 30 seconds, you will hear “Begin speaking now.” Then you will describe the picture, and your response will be recorded. An example is below.
Directions: In this part of the test, you will describe the picture on your screen in as much detail as you can. You will have 30 seconds to prepare your response. Then you will have 45 seconds to speak about the picture.
Your response will be scored using the scoring guide below.
Scoring Guide for Question 3
10 Sample Questions
Questions 4–6
Respond to Questions
Questions 4–6 are three short questions about a single topic. The directions will appear on your screen, and you will hear the directions read by the narrator. Then the introduction and question 4 will appear on your screen and you will hear them read by the narrator. After the narrator reads question 4, you will hear a beep. Then you will have 15 seconds to answer. Your response will be recorded. Then question 5 will appear on your screen and be read by the narrator. After the beep you will have 15 seconds to answer. Your response will be recorded. Then question 6 will appear on your screen and be read by the narrator. After the beep you will have 30 seconds to answer. Your response will be recorded. Examples of ques- tions 4, 5, and 6 are below.
Directions: In this part of the test, you will answer three questions. For each question, begin responding immediately after you hear a beep. No preparation time is provided. You will have 15 seconds to respond to Questions 4 and 5, and
30 seconds to respond to Question 6.
Imagine that a Canadian marketing firm is doing research in your country. You have agreed to participate in a telephone interview about television viewing.
Question 4: How often do you watch television?
Question 5: What kinds of programs do you usually watch?
Question 6: Describe your favorite television program.
Questions 7–9
Respond to Questions Using
Information Provided
Questions 7–9 are three short questions based on a schedule of events. The directions will appear on your screen, and you will hear the directions read by the narrator. Then the schedule will appear on your screen. You will have 30 seconds to study the schedule. Then you will hear the beginning of a telephone call. The call includes questions about the infor- mation in the schedule. After the caller’s first question, you will hear a beep. You will have 15 seconds to answer the question as if you were speaking on the telephone. Then the caller will ask a second question. The question will be fol- lowed by a beep, and you will have 15 seconds to answer the question. Then the caller will ask a third question. The question will be followed by a beep, and you will have
30 seconds to answer the question.
All questions will refer to the schedule, which will remain on the screen throughout all three questions. Examples of ques- tions 7, 8, and 9 are below.
Directions: In this part of the test, you will answer three questions based on the information provided. You will have
30 seconds to read the information before the questions begin. For each question, begin responding immediately after you hear a beep. No additional preparation time is provided. You will have 15 seconds to respond to questions 7 and 8, and
30 seconds to respond to question 9.
After 30 seconds you will hear:
Hello, I’m calling about a conference on May 27 that I saw advertised in the newspaper. It’s about starting your own business. I was hoping you could give me some information.
Question 7: Could you tell me what time the conference starts and how long it will last?
Question 8: How much does the conference attendance cost?
Question 9: I may not be available for the full day. Could you give me information about the activities in the morning, before lunchtime?
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
Sample Questions 11
Sample Questions (continued)
Your responses to questions 4 through 9 will be scored using the scoring guide below.
Scoring Guide for Questions 4–9
SCORE | RESPONSE DESCRIPTION |
3 | The response is a full, relevant, socially appropriate reply to the question. In the case of Questions 7–9, information from the prompt is accurate. ◾ The delivery requires little listener effort. ◾ The choice of vocabulary is appropriate. ◾ The use of structures fulfills the demands of the task. |
2 | The response is a partially effective reply to the question, but is not complete, fully appropriate, or in the case of Questions 7–9, fully accurate. ◾ The delivery may require some listener effort but is mostly intelligible. ◾ The choice of vocabulary may be limited or somewhat inexact, although overall meaning is clear. ◾ The use of structures may require some listener effort for interpretation. ◾ In the case of Questions 7–9, the speaker may locate the relevant information in the prompt but fail to distinguish it from irrelevant information or fail to transform the written language so a listener can easily understand it. |
1 | The response does not answer the question effectively. Relevant information is not conveyed successfully. ◾ The delivery may impede or prevent listener comprehension. ◾ The choice of vocabulary may be inaccurate or rely on repetition of the prompt. ◾ The use of structures may interfere with comprehensibility. |
0 | No response OR no English in the response OR the response is completely unrelated to the test. |
12 Sample Questions
Question 10
Propose a Solution
There is one Propose-a-Solution question on the TOEIC Speaking Test. The directions will appear on your screen, and you will hear the directions read by the narrator. Then you will hear a telephone message. The message will last
30–45 seconds. The message will describe a problem. You will respond as if you are the person receiving the message. After the message, you will have 30 seconds to prepare. Then you will hear “Begin speaking now.” You will have
60 seconds to respond. Your response will be recorded. An example is below.
Directions: In this part of the test, you will be presented with a problem and asked to propose a solution. You will have 30 seconds to prepare. Then you will have 60 seconds to speak.
Respond as if you work at the bank.
In your response, be sure to
◾ show that you recognize the problem, and
◾ propose a way of dealing with the problem.
Now listen to the voice message.
You will hear:
Hi, this is Marsha Syms. I’m calling about my bank card. I went to the bank machine early this morning, you know—the ATM—because the bank was closed, so only the machine was open. Anyway, I put my card in the machine and got my money out, but then my card didn’t come out of the machine. I got my receipt and my money, but then my bank card just didn’t come out. And I’m leaving for my vacation tonight so I’m really going to need it. I had to get to work early this morning and couldn’t wait around for the bank to open. Could you call me here at work and let me know how to get my bank card back? I’m really busy today and really need you to call me soon. I can’t go on vacation without my bank card. This is Marsha Syms at 555-1234. Thanks.
Your response will be scored using the scoring guide that follows. >
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
Sample Questions 13
Sample Questions (continued)
Scoring Guide for Question 10
SCORE | RESPONSE DESCRIPTION |
5 | The response successfully completes all parts of the task and is readily intelligible, coherent, and sustained. It is characterized by ALL of the following: ◾ The speaker plays the appropriate role and understands the relationship between the sender and the receiver of the message. ◾ A clear understanding of the situation in the prompt and a relevant, detailed response to the situation is present. ◾ The speech is clear with a generally well-paced flow. ◾ Good control of basic and complex structures, as appropriate, is exhibited. Some minor errors may be noticeable but they do not obscure meaning. ◾ The use of vocabulary is effective, with allowance for minor inaccuracy. |
4 | The response addresses all parts of the task appropriately, but may fall short of being fully developed. It is generally intelligible, sustained, and coherent, with some minor lapses. ◾ The speaker plays the appropriate role and understands the relationship between the sender and the receiver of the message. ◾ The response is sustained and conveys the minimum relevant information required by the situation in the prompt. ◾ Minor difficulties with pronunciation, intonation, or pacing are noticeable and may require listener effort at times although overall intelligibility is not significantly affected. ◾ The response demonstrates fairly automatic and effective use of grammar but may be somewhat limited in the range of structures used. ◾ The use of vocabulary is fairly effective. Some vocabulary may be inaccurate or imprecise. |
3 | The response attempts to address the task, but does not successfully complete all parts of the task. It contains mostly intelligible speech, although problems with delivery and/or overall coherence may occur. ◾ The speaker may neglect the role-playing aspect of the task or misrepresent the relationship between the sender and the receiver of the message. ◾ The response conveys some relevant information, but is clearly incomplete or inaccurate or the response is based on a misunderstanding of the task or content of the stimulus. ◾ The speech is basically intelligible, though listener effort may be needed because of unclear articulation, awkward intonation, or choppy rhythm/pace. ◾ The response demonstrates limited control of grammar. ◾ The use of vocabulary is limited. |
2 | The response includes very little relevant content and/or speech is mostly unintelligible or incoherent. The content may be limited because of the following: ◾ There are lengthy, socially inappropriate pauses. ◾ The response is only tangentially related to the stimulus and tasks. The speech may be mostly unintelligible because of the following: ◾ The delivery is labored and requires considerable listener effort. ◾ There is very limited control of grammar. ◾ The use of vocabulary is severely limited or inexact. |
1 | The response may be completely unintelligible OR the response may consist of isolated words or phrases, or mixtures of the first language and English OR the response may be vague and general, and show no interaction with the prompt. |
0 | No response OR no English in the response OR the response is completely unrelated to the test. |
14 Sample Questions
Question 11
Express an Opinion
There is one Express-an-Opinion question on the TOEIC Speaking Test. The directions will appear on your screen, and you will hear the directions read by the narrator. After
the directions a question will appear on your screen, and you will hear the question read by the narrator. After the narrator reads the question, you will have 15 seconds to think about your answer. Then you will hear “Begin speaking now.”
You will have 60 seconds to respond. An example is below.
Directions: In this part of the test, you will give your opinion about a specific topic. Be sure to say as much as you can
in the time allowed. You will have 15 seconds to prepare. Then you will have 60 seconds to speak.
Question:
(Narrator): Some people prefer to take a job that does not pay well but does provide a lot of time off from work. What is your opinion about taking a job with a low salary that has a lot of vacation time? Give reasons for your opinion.
Your response will be scored using the scoring guide that follows. >
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
Sample Questions 15
Sample Questions (continued)
Scoring Guide for Question 11
SCORE | RESPONSE DESCRIPTION |
5 | The response clearly indicates the speaker’s choice or opinion, and support of the choice or opinion is readily intelligible, sustained, and coherent. The response is characterized by ALL of the following: ◾ The speaker’s choice or opinion is supported with reason(s), details, arguments, or exemplifications; relationships between ideas are clear. ◾ The speech is clear with generally well-paced flow. It may include minor lapses or minor difficulties with pronunciation or intonation patterns that do not affect overall intelligibility. ◾ Good control of basic and complex structures, as appropriate, is exhibited. Some minor errors may be noticeable but they do not obscure meaning. ◾ The use of vocabulary is effective, with allowance for occasional minor inaccuracy. |
4 | The response clearly indicates the speaker’s choice or opinion and adequately supports or develops the choice or opinion. ◾ The response explains the reason(s) for the speaker’s choice or opinion, although the explanation may not be fully developed; relationships between ideas are mostly clear, with occasional lapses. ◾ Minor difficulties with pronunciation, intonation, or pacing are noticeable and may require listener effort at times, although overall intelligibility is not significantly affected. ◾ The response demonstrates fairly automatic and effective use of grammar but may be somewhat limited in the range of structures used. ◾ The use of vocabulary is fairly effective. Some vocabulary may be inaccurate or imprecise. |
3 | The response expresses a choice, preference, or opinion, but development and support of the choice or opinion is limited. ◾ The response provides at least one reason supporting the choice, preference, or opinion. However, it provides little or no elaboration of the reason, repeats itself with no new information, is vague, or is unclear. ◾ The speech is basically intelligible, though listener effort may be needed because of unclear articulation, awkward intonation, or choppy rhythm/pace; meaning may be obscured in places. ◾ The response demonstrates limited control of grammar; for the most part, only basic sentence structures are used successfully. ◾ The use of vocabulary is limited. |
2 | The response states a choice, preference, or opinion relevant to the prompt, but support for the choice, preference, or opinion is missing, unintelligible, or incoherent. ◾ Consistent difficulties with pronunciation, stress, and intonation cause considerable listener effort; delivery is choppy, fragmented, or telegraphic; there may be long pauses and frequent hesitations. ◾ Control of grammar severely limits expression of ideas and clarity of connections among ideas. ◾ The use of vocabulary is severely limited or highly repetitious. |
1 | The response is limited to reading the prompt or the directions aloud OR the response fails to state an intelligible choice, preference, or opinion as required by the prompt OR the response consists of isolated words or phrases, or mixtures of the first language and English. |
0 | No response OR no English in the response OR the response is completely unrelated to the test. |
16 Sample Questions
Sample Writing Questions
This is the TOEIC Writing Test. This test includes eight questions that measure different aspects of your writing ability. The test lasts approximately one hour.
For each type of question, you will be given specific directions, including the time allowed for writing.
QUESTION | TASK | EVALUATION CRITERIA |
1–5 | Write a sentence based on a picture | ◾ Grammar ◾ Relevance of the sentences to the pictures |
6 –7 | Respond to a written request | ◾ Quality and variety of your sentences ◾ Vocabulary ◾ Organization |
8 | Write an opinion essay | ◾ Whether the opinion is supported with reasons and/or examples ◾ Grammar ◾ Vocabulary ◾ Organization |
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
Sample Questions 17
Sample Questions (continued)
Questions 1–5
Write a Sentence
Based on a Picture
Questions 1–5 of the TOEIC Writing Test are all the same question type. Each question presents a picture on your screen. Below the picture are two words. You will use the two words in one sentence to describe the picture. You may change the form of the words to fit the grammar of your sentence, but you must use some form of both words in one sentence. You will have 8 minutes to complete all
5 questions. An example is below.
Directions: In this part of the test, you will write ONE sentence that is based on a picture. With each picture you will be given TWO words or phrases that you must use in your sentence. You can change the forms of the words and you can use the words in any order.
Your sentences will be scored on
◾ the appropriate use of grammar and
◾ the relevance of the sentence to the picture.
In this part, you can move to the next question by clicking on Next. If you want to return to a previous question, click on Back. You will have 8 minutes to complete this part of the test.
airport terminal / so
Your responses will be scored using the scoring guide below.
Scoring Guide for Questions 1–5
18 Sample Questions
Questions 6–7
Respond to a Written Request
There are two Respond-to-a-Written-Request questions on the TOEIC Writing Test. In each question, an e-mail message will appear on your screen. The directions will say “Read the e-mail.” Below the e-mail will be further directions that will tell you what must be included in your response. You will have 10 minutes to read the e-mail and respond. Once you begin question 7, you cannot return
to question 6. An example is below.
Directions: In this part of the test, you will show how well you can write a response to an e-mail.
Your response will be scored on
◾ the quality and variety of your sentences,
◾ vocabulary, and
◾ organization.
You will have 10 minutes to read and answer each e-mail.
Directions: Read the e-mail.
From: Dale City Welcome Committee
To: New Dale City Residents
Subject: Welcome to your new home! Sent: July 23, 4:32 P.M.
Welcome! We would like to be the first to welcome you to Dale City. We know that there are many things to do when you move, from finding your way around town to setting up your utilities. Please contact us if you need any help at all.
Directions: Respond to the e-mail. Respond as if you have recently moved to a new city. In your e-mail to the committee, make at least TWO requests for information.
Your response will be scored using the scoring guide that follows. >
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
Sample Questions 19
Sample Questions (continued)
Scoring Guide for Questions 6–7
SCORE | RESPONSE DESCRIPTION |
4 | The response effectively addresses all the tasks in the prompt using multiple sentences that clearly convey the information, instructions, questions, etc., required by the prompt. ◾ The writer uses organizational logic or appropriate connecting words or both to create coherence among sentences. ◾ The tone and register of the response is appropriate for the intended audience. ◾ A few isolated errors in grammar or usage may be present, but they do not obscure the writer’s meaning. |
3 | The response is mostly successful but falls short in addressing one of the tasks required by the prompt. ◾ The writer omits, responds unsuccessfully, or responds incompletely to ONE of the required tasks. ◾ The writer uses organizational logic or appropriate connecting words in at least part of the response. ◾ The writer shows some awareness of audience. ◾ Noticeable errors in grammar and usage may be present; ONE sentence may contain errors that obscure meaning. |
2 | The response is marked by several weaknesses. ◾ The writer addresses only ONE of the required tasks or unsuccessfully or incompletely addresses TWO OR THREE of the required tasks. ◾ Connections between ideas may be missing or obscure. ◾ The writer may show little awareness of audience. ◾ Errors in grammar and usage may obscure meaning in MORE THAN ONE sentence. |
1 | The response is seriously flawed and conveys little or no information, instructions, questions, etc., required by the prompt. ◾ The writer addresses NONE of the required tasks, although the response may include some content relevant to stimulus. ◾ Connections between ideas are missing or obscure. ◾ The tone or register may be inappropriate for the audience. ◾ Frequent errors in grammar and usage obscure the writer’s meaning most of the time. |
0 | A response at this level merely copies words from the prompt or stimulus, rejects the topic or is otherwise not connected to the topic, is written in a language other than English, consists of keystroke characters that convey no meaning, or is blank. |
20 Sample Questions
Question 8
Write an Opinion Essay
There is one Write-an-Opinion-Essay question on the TOEIC Writing Test. The directions and essay question will appear on your screen. An example is below.
Directions: In this part of the test, you will write an essay
in response to a question that asks you to state, explain, and support your opinion on an issue. Typically, an effective essay will contain a minimum of 300 words.
Your response will be scored on
◾ whether your opinion is supported with reasons and/or examples,
◾ grammar,
◾ vocabulary, and
◾ organization.
You will have 30 minutes to plan, write, and revise your essay.
Question: There are many ways to find a job: newspaper advertisements, Internet job search Web sites, and personal recommendations. What do you think is the best way to find a job? Give reasons or examples to support your opinion.
Your response will be scored using the scoring guide that follows. >
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
Sample Questions 21
Sample Questions (continued)
Scoring Guide for Question 8
SCORE | RESPONSE DESCRIPTION |
5 | A response at this level largely accomplishes all of the following: ◾ It effectively addresses the topic and task. ◾ It is well organized and well developed, using clearly appropriate explanations, exemplifications, and/or details. ◾ It displays unity, progression, and coherence. ◾ It displays consistent facility in the use of language, demonstrating syntactic variety, appropriate word choice, and idiomaticity, though it may have minor lexical or grammatical errors. |
4 | A response at this level largely accomplishes all of the following: ◾ It addresses the topic and task well, though some points may not be fully elaborated. ◾ It is generally well organized and well developed, using appropriate and sufficient explanations, exemplifications, and/or details. ◾ Displays unity, progression, and coherence, though it may contain occasional redundancy, digression, or unclear connections. ◾ Displays facility in the use of language, demonstrating syntactic variety and range of vocabulary, though it will probably have occasional noticeable minor errors in structure, word form, or use of idiomatic language that do not interfere with meaning. |
3 | A response at this level is marked by one or more of the following: ◾ It addresses the topic and task using somewhat developed explanations, exemplifications, and/or details. ◾ It displays unity, progression, and coherence, though connection of ideas may be occasionally obscured. ◾ It may demonstrate inconsistent facility in sentence formation and word choice that may result in lack of clarity and occasionally obscure meaning. ◾ It may display accurate but limited range of syntactic structures and vocabulary. |
2 | A response at this level may reveal one or more of the following weaknesses: ◾ Limited development in response to the topic and task. ◾ Inadequate organization or connection of ideas. ◾ Inappropriate or insufficient exemplifications, explanations, or details to support or illustrate generalizations in response to the task. ◾ A noticeably inappropriate choice of words or word forms. ◾ An accumulation of errors in sentence structure and/or usage. |
1 | A response at this level is seriously flawed by one or more of the following weaknesses: ◾ Serious disorganization or underdevelopment. ◾ Little or no detail, irrelevant specifics, or questionable responsiveness to the task. ◾ Serious and frequent errors in sentence structure or usage. |
0 | A response at this level merely copies words from the prompt, rejects the topic or is otherwise not connected to the topic, is written in a language other than English, consists of keystroke characters that convey no meaning, or is blank. |
22 Sample Questions
TOEIC Speaking
and Writing Test Scores
ETS and its ETS Preferred Associate have taken steps to ensure, to the extent possible, that tests and test scores are fair for all test takers, regardless of gender, age, nationality, and test taker industry background.
A Speaking Test score and a Writing Test score will be given separately. Each is reported on a scale of 0 to 200. In addi- tion to scaled scores, test takers will receive an indicator
of general skills and abilities in Speaking or Writing. The Speaking Test offers 8 proficiency levels; the Writing Test offers 9 proficiency levels.
The scaled score indicates your overall performance on each of the tests. The scaled score for each of the tests can range from 0 to 200 in increments of 10. Your scores indicate the general proficiency in speaking and writing that you have demonstrated by your performance on the tests.
There are 8 proficiency levels for the Speaking Test and 9 proficiency levels for the Writing Test. The proficiency levels correspond to a scaled score range and describe the types of general skills and proficiencies in spoken or written English that are common for most people who have achieved a score similar to yours. The descriptor associated with the level that you have achieved will help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of your ability to speak or write in English.
WRITING WRITING Scaled Score Proficiency Level |
0 – 30 1 |
40 2 |
50 – 60 3 |
70 – 80 4 |
90 –100 5 |
110 –130 6 |
140 –160 7 |
170 –190 8 |
200 9 |
The Speaking test responses are digitally recorded and sent to
ETS’s Online Scoring Network where they are scored by certified ETS raters. The Speaking test includes six different task types. The first four task types (Questions 1–9) are rated on a scale of 0 to 3 and the last two task types (Questions 10–11) are rated on a scale of 0 to 5. The sum of all ratings is converted to a scaled score of 0 to 200.
SPEAKING SPEAKING Scaled Score Proficiency Level |
0 – 30 1 |
40 – 50 2 |
60 –70 3 |
80 –100 4 |
110 –120 5 |
130 –150 6 |
160 –180 7 |
190 – 200 8 |
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
TOEIC Speaking and Writing Tests Scores 23
and Writing Test Scores (continued)
The Writing test responses are also sent to ETS’s Online Scoring Network and scored by certified ETS raters. The Writing test includes three different task types. The first task type (Questions 1–5) is rated on a scale of 0 to 3, the second task type (Questions 6–7) is rated on a scale of 0 to 4, and the last task type (Question 8) is rated on a scale of 0 to 5. The sum of all ratings is converted to a scaled score of 0 to 200.
QUESTION | TASK | EVALUATION CRITERIA | SCORE SCALE |
1– 5 | Write a sentence based on a picture | ◾ Grammar ◾ Relevance of the sentences to the pictures | 0 – 3 |
6 –7 | Respond to a written request | ◾ Quality and variety of your sentences ◾ Vocabulary ◾ Organization | 0 – 4 |
8 | Write an opinion essay | ◾ Whether your opinion is supported with reasons and/or examples ◾ Grammar ◾ Vocabulary ◾ Organization | 0 – 5 |
Proficiency Level Descriptors:
Speaking
Level 8 Scale Score 190 –200
Typically, test takers at level 8 can create connected, sustained discourse appropriate to the typical workplace. When they
express opinions or respond to complicated requests, their speech is highly intelligible. Their use of basic and complex grammar is good and their use of vocabulary is accurate and precise.
Test takers at level 8 can also use spoken language to answer questions and give basic information.
Their pronunciation and intonation and stress are at all times highly intelligible.
Level 7 Scale Score 160 –180
Typically, test takers at level 7 can create connected, sustained discourse appropriate to the typical workplace. They can express opinions or respond to complicated requests effectively. In extended responses, some of the following weaknesses may sometimes occur, but they do not interfere with the message:
◾ minor difficulties with pronunciation, intonation, or hesitation when creating language
◾ some errors when using complex grammatical structures
◾ some imprecise vocabulary
Test takers at level 7 can also use spoken language to answer questions and give basic information.
When reading aloud, test takers at level 7 are highly intelligible.
Level 6 Scale Score 130 –150
Typically, test takers at level 6 are able to create a relevant response when asked to express an opinion or respond to a complicated request. However, at least part of the time, the reasons for, or explanations of, the opinion are unclear to a listener. This may be because of the following:
◾ unclear pronunciation or inappropriate intonation or stress when the speaker must create language
◾ mistakes in grammar
◾ a limited range of vocabulary
Most of the time, test takers at level 6 can answer questions and give basic information. However, sometimes their responses are difficult to understand or interpret.
When reading aloud, test takers at Level 6 are intelligible.
Level 5 Scale Score 110 –120
Typically, test takers at level 5 have limited success at expressing an opinion or responding to a complicated request. Responses include problems such as:
◾ language that is inaccurate, vague, or repetitive
◾ minimal or no awareness of audience
◾ long pauses and frequent hesitations
◾ limited expression of ideas and connections between ideas
◾ limited vocabulary
Most of the time, test takers at level 5 can answer questions and give basic information. However, sometimes their responses are difficult to understand or interpret.
When reading aloud, test takers at Level 5 are generally intelligible. However, when creating language, their pronunciation, intonation and stress may be inconsistent.
24 TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing TOEIC Speaking & Writing Test Scores
Level 4 Scale Score 80 –100
Typically, test takers at level 4 are unsuccessful when attempting to explain an opinion or respond to a complicated request. The response may be limited to a single sentence or part of a sentence. Other problems may include:
◾ severely limited language use
◾ minimal or no audience awareness
◾ consistent pronunciation, stress, and intonation difficulties
◾ long pauses and frequent hesitations
◾ severely limited vocabulary
Most of the time, test takers at level 4 can not answer questions or give basic information.
When reading aloud, test takers at Level 4 vary in intelligibility. However, when they are creating language, speakers at level 4 usually have problems with pronunciation, and intonation and stress. For more information, check the “Read Aloud Pronunciation and Intonation and Stress ratings.”
Level 3 Scale Score 60 –70
Typically, test takers at level 3 can, with some difficulty, state an opinion, but they can not support the opinion. Any response to a complicated request is severely limited.
Most of the time, test takers at level 3 can not answer questions and give basic information.
Typically, test takers at level 3 have insufficient vocabulary or grammar to create simple descriptions.
When reading aloud, speakers at level 3 may be difficult to understand. For more information, check the “Read Aloud Pronunciation and Intonation and Stress ratings.”
Level 2 Scale Score 40 –50
Typically, test takers at level 2 can not state an opinion or support it. They either do not respond to complicated requests or the response is not at all relevant.
In routine social and occupational interactions such as answering questions and giving basic information, test takers at level 2 are difficult to understand.
When reading aloud, speakers at level 2 may be difficult to understand. For more information, check the “Read Aloud Pronunciation and Intonation and Stress ratings.”
Level 1 Scale Score 0 –30
Test takers at level 1 left a significant part of the TOEIC Speaking Test unanswered. Test takers at level 1 may not have the listening or reading skills in English necessary to understand the test directions or the content of the test questions.
Low
When reading aloud your pronunciation is not generally intelligible.
Medium
When reading aloud your pronunciation is generally intelligible with some lapses.
High
When reading aloud your pronunciation is highly intelligible.
(Intonation and Stress refer to your ability to use emphases, pauses, and rising and falling pitch to convey meaning to a listener.)
Low
When reading aloud your use of intonation and stress is generally not effective.
Medium
When reading aloud your use of intonation and stress is generally effective.
High
When reading aloud your use of intonation and stress is highly effective.
Proficiency Level Descriptors:
Writing
Level 9 Scale Score 200
Typically, test takers at level 9 can communicate straightforward information effectively and use reasons, examples, or explanations to support an opinion.
When using reasons, examples, or explanations to support an opinion, their writing is well-organized and well- developed. The use of English is natural, with a variety of sentence structures and appropriate word choice, and is grammatically accurate.
When giving straightforward information, asking questions, giving instructions, or making requests, their writing is
clear, coherent, and effective.
Level 8 Scale score 170 –190
Typically, test takers at level 8 can communicate straightforward information effectively and use reasons, examples, or explanations to support an opinion.
When giving straightforward information, asking questions, giving instructions, or making requests, their writing is
clear, coherent, and effective.
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
TOEIC Speaking & Writing Test Scores 25
and Writing Test Scores (continued)
When using reasons, examples, or explanations to support an opinion, their writing is generally good. It is generally well-organized and uses a variety of sentence structures and appropriate vocabulary. It may also include one of the following weaknesses:
◾ occasional unnecessary repetition of ideas or unclear connections between ideas
◾ noticeable minor grammatical mistakes or incorrect word choices
Level 7 Scale Score 140 –160
Typically, test takers at level 7 can effectively give straightforward information, ask questions, give instructions, or make requests but are only partially successful when using reasons, examples, or explanations to support an opinion.
When attempting to explain an opinion, their writing presents relevant ideas and some support. Typical weaknesses at this level include:
◾ not enough specific support and development for the main points
◾ unclear connections between the points that are made
◾ grammatical mistakes or incorrect word choices
When giving straightforward information, asking questions, giving instructions, or making requests, their writing is
clear, coherent, and effective.
Level 6 Scale Score 110 –130
Typically, test takers at level 6 are partially successful when giving straightforward information or supporting an opinion with reasons, examples, or explanations.
When giving straightforward information, asking questions, giving instructions, or making requests, the message omits important information or is partly unintelligible.
When attempting to explain an opinion, their writing presents relevant ideas and some support. Typical weaknesses at this level include:
◾ not providing enough specific support and development for the main points
◾ unclear connections between the points that are made
◾ grammatical mistakes or incorrect word choices
Level 5 Scale Score 90 –100
Typically, test takers at level 5 are at least partially successful when giving straightforward information. However, when supporting an opinion with reasons, examples, or explanations, they are mostly unsuccessful.
When giving straightforward information, asking questions, giving instructions, or making requests, the message omits important information or is partly unintelligible.
When attempting to explain an opinion, significant weaknesses that interfere with communication occur, such as:
◾ not providing enough examples, explanations, or details to support the opinion or they are inappropriate
◾ inadequate organization or connection of ideas
◾ limited development of ideas
◾ serious grammatical mistakes or incorrect word choices
Level 4 Scale Score 70 – 80
Typically, test takers at level 4 have some developing ability to express an opinion and to give straightforward information. However, communication is limited.
When attempting to explain an opinion, significant weaknesses that interfere with communication occur, such as:
◾ not providing enough examples, explanations, or details to support the opinion or they are inappropriate
◾ inadequate organization or connection of ideas
◾ limited development of ideas
◾ serious grammatical mistakes or incorrect word choices
When giving straightforward information, asking questions, giving instructions, or making requests, the responses do not successfully complete the task because of
◾ missing information
◾ missing or obscure connections between sentences and/or
◾ many grammatical mistakes or incorrect word choices
At level 4, test takers have some ability to produce grammatically correct sentences, but they are inconsistent.
Level 3 Scale Score 50 – 60
Typically, test takers at level 3 have limited ability to express an opinion and to give straightforward information.
When attempting to explain an opinion, the responses show one of the following serious flaws:
◾ serious disorganization or underdevelopment of ideas
◾ little or no detail or irrelevant specifics
◾ serious and frequent grammatical mistakes or incorrect word choices
When giving straightforward information, asking questions, giving instructions, or making requests, the responses do not successfully complete the task because of
◾ missing information
◾ missing or obscure connections between sentences and/or
◾ many grammatical mistakes or incorrect word choices
At level 3, test takers have some ability to produce grammatically correct sentences, but they are inconsistent.
26 TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing TOEIC Speaking & Writing Test Scores
Level 2 Scale Score 40
Typically, test takers at level 2 have only very limited ability to express an opinion and give straightforward information.
When attempting to explain an opinion, the responses show one of the following serious flaws:
◾ serious disorganization or underdevelopment of ideas
◾ little or no detail or irrelevant specifics
◾ serious and frequent grammatical mistakes or incorrect word choices
At level 2, test takers cannot give straightforward information. Typical weaknesses at this level include:
◾ not including any of the important information
◾ missing or obscure connections between ideas
◾ frequent grammatical mistakes or incorrect word choices
At level 2, test takers are unable to produce grammatically correct sentences.
Level 1 Scale Score 0 – 30
Test takers at level 1 left part or parts of the TOEIC Writing Test unanswered. Test takers at level 1 may need to improve their reading ability in order to understand the test
directions and the content of test questions.
To ensure the reliability of all of the TOEIC Speaking and
Writing tests, ETS adheres to a stringent 10-step process:
1. ETS recruits highly qualified applicants to be raters.
2. ETS reviews applicants’ résumés and selects the best- qualified candidates to participate in rater training.
3. Rater candidates participate in extensive online training in which they train by scoring authentic responses.
4. Raters must qualify to score by first passing a certification test. Only certified raters may score ETS tests. This testing demonstrates that raters can score accurately.
5. Scoring leaders receive special training on difficult-to- score samples.
6. Raters use carefully developed rubrics and guidelines.
7. Raters must pass a calibration test before every scoring session. This testing ensures that raters are scoring accurately that day.
8. Scoring leaders monitor raters throughout the scoring process. If a rater is not scoring accurately, the scoring leader retrains the rater or excludes the rater from scoring.
9. Scoring leaders and test developers use statistical reports to monitor rater performance during and after every scoring session.
10. Statisticians review and analyze all scoring results before scores are released.
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
TOEIC Speaking & Writing Test Scores 27
Policies and Guidelines for the Use of TOEIC
Speaking and Writing Test Scores
These policies and guidelines provide information about the appropriate use of TOEIC Speaking and Writing test scores for corporations or schools that use the scores in making hiring, evaluation, and career promotion decisions, as well
as school-related decisions. They are also intended to protect test takers from unfair decisions that may result from inap- propriate use of scores.
The TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests are designed to assess English-language proficiency relevant to today’s international market. As measures with known statistical properties and high-quality technical characteristics, the scores from these tests, when used properly, can improve the hiring, evaluation, and career promotion decision processes
of local and multi-national corporations, and other organiza- tions where English communication skills are a critical job requirement.
ETS and the ETS Preferred Associates have a particular obligation to inform users of the appropriate uses of TOEIC Speaking and Writing test scores, and to identify and attempt to rectify instances of misuse. To this end, the following poli- cies and guidelines are available to all TOEIC Speaking and Writing test takers, institutions, and organizations that are recipients of TOEIC Speaking and Writing test scores.
In recognition of their obligation to ensure the appropriate use of TOEIC Speaking and Writing test scores, ETS and its ETS Preferred Associates developed policies designed to make score reports are available only to approved recipients, to pro- tect the confidentiality of examinees’ scores, and to follow up on cases of possible misuse of scores. The policies are dis- cussed on the next page.
TOEIC Speaking and Writing test scores, whether for an individual or aggregated for an institution, are confidential and can be released only by authorization of the individual or institution or by compulsion of legal process.
We recognize examinees’ right to privacy with regard to information that is stored in data or research files held by ETS and its ETS Preferred Associates, and our responsibility to protect examinees from unauthorized disclosure of the information.
Individually identifiable TOEIC scores are retained in a database for two years. After two years, all information that could identify an individual is removed. If you took the TOEIC tests more than two years ago, you will have to take the tests again to have scores sent to you.
ETS and the ETS Preferred Associates make every effort to report scores that accurately reflect the performance of every test taker. Accordingly, ETS standards and procedures for administering tests have two primary goals: to give all test takers equivalent opportunities to demonstrate their abili- ties, and to prevent any test taker from gaining an unfair advantage over others. To promote these objectives, ETS
and the ETS Preferred Associates reserve the right to cancel any test score when, in their judgment, a testing irregularity occurs, there is an apparent discrepancy in a test taker’s identification, a test taker engages in misconduct, a test
taker attempts to use the work or ideas of others as their own in the essay section of the test, or the score is invalid for another reason. ETS and the ETS Preferred Associates
will also exercise their right to cancel any test score if we are unable to authenticate the results of any part of an examin- ee’s test. This includes, but is not limited to, the Speaking
or Writing portion (for example, different voices or more than one voice within a Speaking test). Reviews of scores by ETS are confidential. When, for any of the above reasons, ETS or the ETS Preferred Associate cancels a test score that has already been reported, score recipients are notified that the score has been canceled, but the reason for cancellation is not disclosed except when authorized by the test taker or in certain group cases.
Testing Irregularities refer to problems with the administra- tion of a test. When testing irregularities occur, they may affect an individual or group of test takers. Such problems include, without limitation, administrative errors such as improper timing, improper seating, defective materials, or defective equipment; improper access to test content; and other disruptions of test administrations such as natural disasters and other emergencies. When testing irregularities occur, ETS or the ETS Preferred Associate may decline to score the test, or may cancel the scores. When in their judg- ment it is appropriate to do so, ETS or the ETS Preferred Associate may give affected test takers the opportunity to take the test again as soon as possible without charge.
28 TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing Policies and Guidelines
When, in the judgment of ETS, the ETS Preferred Associate, or test center personnel, there is a discrepancy in a test taker’s identification, the test taker may be dismissed from the test center. In addition, ETS or the ETS Preferred Associate may decline to score a test or may cancel the scores and the test fee will be forfeited.
When ETS, the ETS Preferred Associate, or test center per- sonnel find that there is misconduct in connection with a test, the test taker may be dismissed from the test center. ETS or the ETS Preferred Associate may decline to score
the test or may cancel the test scores. Test takers whose scores are canceled because of misconduct will forfeit their test fees. Misconduct includes, but is not limited to, non- compliance with the Test Center Procedures and Regulations on page 7 of this handbook.
ETS or the ETS Preferred Associate reserves the right to can- cel the scores of test takers when, in their judgment, there is evidence that an essay or speaking response includes, for example, text or ideas that are substantially similar to that found in other TOEIC responses, or the quotation or para- phrasing, without attribution, of language or ideas from published and unpublished sources. Such responses do not reflect the independent speaking or compositional writing skills that the test seeks to measure.
All organizational users of TOEIC Speaking and Writing scores have an obligation to use the scores in accordance
with the guidelines below; for example, using multiple crite- ria, accepting only official TOEIC Speaking and Writing scores, etc. Organizations have a responsibility to ensure
that all individuals using TOEIC Speaking and Writing scores are aware of these guidelines and to monitor the use of the scores, correcting instances of misuse when they are identified. ETS and the ETS Preferred Associates are avail- able to assist institutions in resolving score-misuse issues.
◾ Use Multiple Criteria
Regardless of the decision to be made, multiple sources of information should be used to ensure fairness and
to balance the limitations of any single measure of knowledge, skills, or abilities. These sources may include graduate or undergraduate grade point average, years of experience in the target position, and recommendations from past supervisors and colleagues. When used in conjunction with other criteria, TOEIC Speaking and Writing test scores can be a powerful tool in making hiring, evaluation, promotion, or school-related decisions.
◾ Accept Only Official TOEIC Speaking and Writing
Score Reports
The only official reports of TOEIC Speaking and Writing test scores are those issued by ETS Preferred Associates or by ETS. If an organization administers TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests internally, with ETS knowledge and approval, it can obtain and keep score reports from that test administration. Scores obtained from other sources should not be accepted. If there is a question about the authenticity of a score report, the question should be referred to the ETS Preferred Associate, who will then verify the accuracy of the scores and whether an official report was issued.
◾ Maintain Confidentiality of TOEIC Speaking and
Writing Test Scores
All individuals who have access to TOEIC Speaking and Writing test scores should be aware of the confidential nature of the scores and agree to maintain their confidentiality. Policies should be developed and
implemented to ensure that confidentiality is maintained.
TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing
Policies and Guidelines 29
Policies and Guidelines (continued)
The suitability of the TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests for a particular use should be explicitly examined before using test scores for that particular purpose. The following list of appropriate uses of TOEIC Speaking and Writing test scores is based on the policies and guidelines previously outlined. The list is meant to be illustrative, not exhaustive. There may be other appropriate uses of TOEIC Speaking and Writing test scores, but any uses other than those listed below should be discussed in advance with ETS and its ETS Preferred Associate to determine appropriateness.
If a use other than those appropriate uses listed below
is contemplated, it will be important for the user to validate the use of scores for that purpose. ETS and its ETS Preferred Associate will provide advice on the design of such validity studies.
Appropriate Uses
Provided all applicable guidelines are followed, TOEIC Speaking and Writing test scores are suitable for the uses described below.
1. Hiring of applicants for an open position within a corporation or organization where workplace/everyday- life English is a required job skill
2. Placement of applicants or candidates within a corporation or organization where workplace/everyday- life English is a required job skill
3. Promotion of candidates within a corporation or organization where workplace/everyday-life English is a required job skill
4. Measurement of workplace/everyday-life English proficiency levels of students in schools
5. Measurement of individuals’ progress in workplace/
everyday-life English proficiency levels over time
Misuses
Uses of the test other than those listed in the Appropriate Uses section should be avoided unless authorized by ETS or the ETS Preferred Associate.
After taking the TOEIC test, please visit www.ets.org/toeic to complete the Candidate Satisfaction Survey.
If you have questions or comments regarding the TOEIC Speaking and Writing tests, please contact your local ETS Preferred Associate or TOEIC, ETS, Rosedale Road, Princeton, New Jersey 08541 USA, or e-mail us at toeic@ets.org.
30 TOEIC Examinee Handbook—Speaking & Writing Policies and Guidelines
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To learn more, visit www.ets.org/ell
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