TOEFL Speaking Vocabulary - 14 Words You Need to Score 30/30

Summary

In this informative video, teacher Josh emphasizes the importance of vocabulary for the TOEFL speaking section, highlighting 14 essential words and phrases that can enhance test performance. He explains how to effectively use these terms in various questions, demonstrating their application through examples. The focus is on practical vocabulary that can help students articulate their thoughts clearly and confidently on test day. Additionally, Josh offers resources for further practice, including templates and an emergency course for last-minute preparations, ensuring students feel equipped to achieve their desired scores.

Takeaways

• 😀 Vocabulary depth and diversity are crucial for achieving a high score in TOEFL speaking.
• 😀 Use words like 'definitely' to express strong beliefs in your responses.
• 😀 The phrase 'according to' helps indicate sources of information, useful for answering questions 2, 3, and 4.
• 😀 'Passage' is a key term that refers to reading and listening materials; it's essential to use it correctly.
• 😀 'In particular' adds specificity when you're expanding on an idea mentioned previously.
• 😀 Phrases like 'crazy about' or 'big fan of' are more engaging alternatives to simply saying 'like' or 'dislike.'
• 😀 Use 'elaborated on' to show detailed discussion during responses to questions 3 and 4.
• 😀 Synonyms for 'professor,' such as 'lecturer' or 'speaker,' can enhance vocabulary variety in your answers.
• 😀 Incorporating phrases like 'examples of' will help articulate concepts clearly during the speaking test.
• 😀 'Concerned over' conveys worry effectively and can be used in various question contexts.

Q & A

Why is vocabulary important in the TOEFL speaking section?

Vocabulary is crucial because it affects your score in dimensions like vocabulary depth and diversity. Using varied and precise vocabulary can enhance your performance.

What does the term 'definitely' signify in a TOEFL speaking response?

'Definitely' is used to express certainty and strong belief in an opinion, helping to convey confidence in your answer.

How can the phrase 'according to' be effectively used in responses?

This phrase indicates the source of information and is particularly useful for referencing content from reading or listening passages in questions 2, 3, and 4.

What is the importance of using the term 'passage' in the TOEFL speaking section?

'Passage' refers to the reading or listening material that students must summarize or refer to. It's necessary to use this term clearly when discussing the content.

What does 'in particular' imply in a speaking response?

'In particular' is used to specify or emphasize a certain point, which is valuable for elaborating on details in responses.

Why might a student prefer to use the phrase 'not crazy about' instead of simply saying 'dislike'?

Using 'not crazy about' adds variety and demonstrates a higher level of vocabulary, making the speech more engaging.

How does 'elaborated on' differ from simply saying 'talked about'?

'Elaborated on' implies a deeper level of explanation and detail, which can showcase a stronger command of vocabulary.

What is the function of the phrase 'examples of' in a TOEFL speaking response?

This phrase is used to introduce specific instances that illustrate a broader concept, aiding in clarity and depth.

How can idioms like 'double-edged sword' be effectively utilized in speaking?

Idioms can enhance expression and add color to speech, but they should be used carefully to ensure naturalness in delivery.

What is the significance of the concluding phrase 'as you can see'?

'As you can see' is a way to summarize or conclude your response, helping to tie together the main points discussed.