Home · TOEFL iBT Preparation · Unit 05
Unit 05
Speaking: Listen and Repeat & Take an Interview
accurate repetition and 45-second answers without preparation
The Two Tasks
| Task | What you do | What is scored |
|---|---|---|
| Listen and Repeat | Hear 7 short sentences (each with a picture or map) once and repeat each one exactly. | accuracy, pronunciation, rhythm |
| Take an Interview | Answer interview questions on familiar topics — no preparation time, 45 seconds per answer. | fluency, language use, relevance |
Tactics
- Listen and Repeat: copy the speaker's rhythm and stress, not just the words. Linked sounds (turn it off → "tur-ni-toff") and weak forms (to, for, of) matter.
- Interview: start with a direct answer, give a reason, add a short example, and finish with a summary sentence — this fills 45 seconds naturally.
- No preparation time means you need a few natural starters: That's a good question. I'd say… / Honestly, I think… / It depends, but for me…
Model Interview Answer (about 45 seconds)
Interviewer: Do you prefer studying alone or with other people?
"Honestly, I prefer studying alone, especially before exams. The main reason is that I can concentrate better and go at my own speed. For example, when I was preparing for my final maths exam last year, I tried a study group, but we spent most of the time chatting. When I studied on my own in the library, I finished twice as many practice questions. That said, I do think groups are useful for discussing difficult ideas, so I sometimes meet a friend after I've studied alone."
Press Play and answer while you listen. The audio uses your browser's English voice (Chrome and Edge give the best result). Turn on exam mode to hear each recording only once, as in the real test.