TOEFL IBT Speaking Question 5 (Tips&Examples)

When I have looked my other posts, I saw that I didn't give any information about time,words and etc, the technical details. From now on, I will :) It's also as important as the structure and topic. Let's start ;)

In question 5, you should have good listening skills because you will not read any passage. You will hear a passage of approximately 180–220 words. It will be a conversation about a student-related problem and two possible solutions. You will need to understand the problem and give your opinion as to the better solution.

Important : 20 seconds preparation time, 60 seconds to speak.

The question :

The student describes two solutions to her problem. Describe the problem and then tell which of the two solutions you would prefer and why.

By the way, I will use only "man/he/him" in sentences. "man/woman or he/she or him/her" doesn't seem so nice :)

Outline 1:

The man's problem is that...............(problem).................

His friend presents 2 suggestions; one of that is .......(1.suggestion).......... and the other one .........(2.suggestion)................. . 

If I were him, I would.....(your choice)............... . 

......(Write your reasons, not only the choice's owner's reasons)..................

Outline 2 (Approved):

According to the conversation, the man's problem is that ....(problem).........

Students discuss 2 solutions. His friend gives him 2 solutions. First, .......(1.solution)........ Second,....(2.solution)......

If I were the man, I would choose the second solution.

1st solution isn't good because even though....(positive response of solution 1).........., as the man said......(negative response).......

2nd one is better because even though ......(negative response of solution 2)..........., as the man said......(positive reason).......... 

That's why I choose 2 nd solution.

Also usable phrases in your conversation.

• The problem is how
• She is considering two options
• One option is
• The other option is
• I would prefer
• may be the better option
• has two alternatives
• is the better alternative
• On the one hand
• On the other hand
• In my opinion