TOEFL iBT Independent Writing Task

This is a standard 5 paragraph composition, a 5 paragraph essay with an introduction, 3 body paragraphs and a conclusion. Your independent writing task will be one of these three possible types: Agree or Disagree. You’ll need to pick one side and give specific reasons and examples that support your opinion. Explain Both Sides. Explain ONE side and for each body paragraph, bring in the other side to contrast. Pick a position from multiple options. Take a position and give your reasons.

Overall Structure of Your 5 Paragraph Essay

INTRODUCTION (Paragraph 1)

BACKGROUND INFORMATION IF AVAILABLE. THESIS.

BODY (Paragraph 2)

first reason that supports the thesis. clarification of the reason. example that illustrates the reason.

BODY (Paragraph 3)

Second reason that supports the thesis. clarification of the reason. example that illustrates the reason.

BODY (Paragraph 4)

Third reason that supports the thesis. clarification of the reason. example that illustrates the reason.

CONCLUSION (Paragraph 5)

Paraphrase the thesis and include the reasons all in one sentence.

The Order of Writing

Your essay will be written with the structure just outlined, but you will write the parts of the puzzle in the following order, fitting them in the proper position in the jigsaw.

1. Write the thesis and put it at the end of paragraph 1.

2. Write that 3 topic sentences of the body paragraphs and put them, one by one at the beginning of paragraphs 2, 3, and 4

3. Paraphrase the thesis, including the 3 points to make a long sentence which will be the beginning and end of paragraph 5.

4. Add background information if it is included in the prompt. Otherwise add nothing.

5. Now fill in the body paragraphs by clarifying the topic sentence and giving a concrete example.

6. Re-read the prompt. If it requires you to make any comparisons, add those comparisons to at least 2 of the body paragraphs.

7. Add any transitions or connectors to make the reading flow from beginning to end.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Use a clock. Work within a 30 minute period, no more than that. Make sure to get your work corrected and scored by an English teacher who should use the official rubric. Writing Q1 & Q2 Rubrics