June 06, 2026

Dear Madam,

I am writing to inquire about family counseling service [k4: missing determiner / article] your family counselling services/ a family counselling service..

My spouse and I have frequent arguments and difficulty communicating calmly, so I would like to ask whether it is possible to attend counselling, but I am not quite sure that my spouse is willing to attend [k2: awkward logical structure — the contrast is not expressed naturally] . However, I am not certain whether my spouse would be willing to participate. //Although we experience frequent disagreements and communication difficulties, I am unsure whether my partner would agree to take part in counselling.

In that case [k2: vague reference -- in what case? if the spouse continues refusing to come?] If so, is it possible to start with an individual consultation first?

I would appreciate if you provide [k4: incorrect verb pattern -- 'appreciate' is a transitive verb, which means that it requires an object.] it if you could provide information about the fee, session length, and confidentiality [k2: incomplete request — unclear what information about confidentiality is required] your confidentiality policy. //I would also be grateful for details regarding consultation fees, the typical duration of appointments, and the way client privacy is protected.

Could you please let me know which appointment times are available?

Thank you in advance for your help.

Yours Faithfully [k5: capitalization] faithfully,
Kate A.

Estimated TOEFL Email score: 4.5 / 6

Strong points:

  • The purpose of the email is clear.
  • All requested information is relevant to the situation.
  • The tone is generally polite and appropriate.
  • The email is logically organized.

Main weaknesses:

  • Several grammar and collocation issues:
    • family counseling service
    • I would appreciate if you provide
    • not quite sure that my spouse is willing
  • Some logical/cohesion weaknesses:
    • In that case has an unclear reference.
    • confidentiality is too vague as a request.
  • Limited language range:
    • The email relies on fairly basic structures and vocabulary.
    • Requests could be phrased more professionally and precisely.
  • Minor mechanics issue:
    • Yours Faithfully → Yours faithfully.

Why not 5.5–6/6: The message successfully completes the task, but several grammar, collocation, and cohesion issues reduce its linguistic quality. The language is functional rather than polished, and the range of structures is relatively limited. A stronger response would demonstrate more precise professional phrasing and greater control of formal correspondence conventions.

From my perspective there are [k5: missing comma after introductory phrase] From my perspective, there are some parallels between mentioned two methods [k4: missing determiner] the two methods mentioned. //In my view, the two approaches share several similarities.

Following Max’s idea, neuromarketing is based on facial characteristics, such as emotional signs [k3: inaccurate word choice] cues, which help to understand consumer’s fillings and mood [k5: wrong spelling + k4: wrong possessive form + k3: inaccurate collocation] researchers understand consumers’ emotions/feelings and attitudes. //As Max points out, neuromarketing relies on facial cues that may reveal consumers’ emotional reactions and preferences.

There are micro signs [k3: inaccurate terminology] micro-expressions which are also used by detectives. [k2: unsupported argument — the connection with detectives does not clearly support the comparison between neuromarketing and phrenology] 

Moreover, there is a popular psychological test based on portraits choice [k4: incorrect noun form] the choice of portraits followed by the same face’s signs [k3: inaccurate terminology] facial features. [k2: unclear logic — the relevance of this example to the discussion is not sufficiently explained]

In conclusion, that all rooted from phrenology [k4: missing verb + k4: wrong verbal pattern] all these approaches are rooted in phrenology. //Overall, these approaches may share historical roots with earlier attempts to infer psychological traits from physical characteristics, which formed a discipline known as phrenology.

arguing Emma’s opinion [k3: inaccurate collocation] contrary to Emma’s view, it is unscientific now [k2: illogical flow] although it is now regarded as unscientific, but [k4: redundant conjunction] all science evaluated [k3: wrong word choice] evolved from some unscientific historical passage [k3: unnatural collocation] less scientific historical stage. //Although phrenology is no longer considered scientific, many modern disciplines developed from earlier theories that were later revised or rejected.

Estimated TOEFL Academic Discussion score: 3 / 6

Strong points:

  • The response attempts to engage directly with both Max's and Emma's positions.
  • The writer tries to provide supporting examples.
  • A clear position is presented.

Main weaknesses:

  • Numerous lexical inaccuracies:
    • signs instead of cues or features
    • fillings
    • historical passage
  • Several grammar problems:
    • that all rooted from phrenology
    • portraits choice
    • consumer's fillings
  • Multiple coherence and logic issues:
    • The example involving detectives is not clearly linked to the main argument.
    • The psychological-test example is insufficiently explained.
    • The final argument partially undermines itself by calling phrenology unscientific without clearly explaining why this still supports the writer's position.
  • The response is relatively short and underdeveloped compared with stronger TOEFL Academic Discussion responses.

Why not higher: Although the main idea can be understood, frequent lexical, grammatical, and logical problems reduce clarity and persuasiveness. The argument requires more precise language and stronger explanation of how the examples support the central claim.

June, 09, 2026

To: lostproperty@cityartmuseum.com
Subject: Inquiry about Lost Article of Clothing

Dear administration [k5: capitalization / k1: salutation style] Administration,

I am writing to inquire about lost personal belongings in the museum [k3: unnatural phrasing] a lost item at the museum.

Yesterday, I visited the museum and after leaving I understood [k3: inaccurate word choice] realised that I have lost [k4: wrong tense] had lost my jacket there, I suppose, in the Ancient Civilisation [k5: spelling consistency — the email uses “gray/grey” style inconsistently if American spelling is expected; British spelling is acceptable if consistent] Civilisation Gallery or near the cloak room [k5: spelling / compound noun] cloakroom area. //Yesterday, after visiting the museum, I realised that I had probably left my jacket in the Ancient Civilisation Gallery or near the cloakroom.

It is a grey velvet jacket in a small size [k3: unnatural phrasing] size small with pearl buttons.

In that case [k2: illogical connector — no condition has been introduced] Therefore, I would like to ask, [k5: punctuation — no comma is used before an indirect question after “ask”] if someone has handed it onto [k4: wrong preposition] in to the lost property office. //Could you please let me know whether anyone has handed it in to the lost property office?

If so, could you please clarify how can I collect [k4: incorrect word order in an indirect question] how I can collect my jacket?

Please let me know, [k5: punctuation — no comma is used before an if-clause functioning as the complement of “let me know”] if you get any information ob [k5: wrong spelling] on this issue. //Please contact me if you receive any information about this item.

My phone number is 0365479747589.

I am looking forward [k1: register — “I look forward to...” is more standard in formal emails] look forward to your response.

Kind regards,
Kate A.

Estimated TOEFL Email score: 4 / 6

Strong points:

  • The purpose is clear: you report a lost jacket and ask how to collect it.
  • Relevant identifying details are included: colour, material, size, buttons, possible location.
  • The tone is polite and generally appropriate.
  • Contact information is provided.

Main weaknesses:

  • Several grammar and word-order problems:
    • have lost instead of had lost
    • how can I collect instead of how I can collect
  • Noticeable lexical/collocational issues:
    • understood instead of realised
    • handed it onto
    • lost personal belongings in the museum
  • Several punctuation/mechanics problems.
  • The email is understandable, but it does not sound consistently natural or polished.

Why not higher: The task is completed and the message is clear, but frequent small language-control issues reduce the score. It is functional rather than fluent.

___

To: support@silverlinecinema.com
Subject: Request for Refund Due to Duplicate Ticket Payment

Dear Support team [k5: capitalization in salutation] Team,

I am writing to report an issue about [k4: wrong preposition / k3: unnatural collocation] with cinema tickets.

Recently, I managed the booking #2345 online through your website on “Barbie” 09/10/26 10PM [k3: unnatural phrasing + k2: unclear booking details+k4:wrong article -- us the zero article before nouns followed by indexes] made booking #2345 online through your website for “Barbie” on 09/10/26 at 10 p.m.. //I recently booked ticket #2345 for a 10 p.m. showing of “Barbie” on 09/10/26 through your website.

Accidantly [k5: wrong spelling] Unfortunately, during payment attempt [k4: missing determiner] the payment process the website showed error message [k4: missing article] an error message, so I made another attempt, which was successful, but the charged had been made twice [k4: wrong verb form + k4: wrong tense / voice] charge was made twice. //During payment, the website displayed an error message, so I tried again. The second payment was successful, but I was charged twice.

Given that circumstances [k4: incorrect determiner / number form] these circumstances, I would like to know whether the cine [k5: wrong spelling / incomplete word] cinema can refund the extra payment.

If so, could you please let me know whether I need to send a proof [k4: wrong article with uncountable noun] proof of payment and how long the return process [k3: inaccurate word choice] refund process will take?

Thank you in advance for your help.

Kind regards,
Kate A.

Estimated TOEFL Email score: 3.5 / 6

Strong points:

  • The purpose is understandable: you are requesting a refund for a duplicate payment.
  • The email includes important details: booking number, film title, date, time, and payment issue.
  • The tone is polite and appropriate.
  • The final request about proof of payment and refund timing is relevant.

Main weaknesses:

  • Several grammar problems:
    • error message without an article
    • the charged had been made twice
    • that circumstances
    • a proof of payment
  • Several lexical and collocational issues:
    • issue about cinema tickets
    • managed the booking
    • return process
  • Spelling/mechanics mistakes:
    • Accidantly
    • cine
    • Support team in the salutation
  • The payment explanation is understandable but not smoothly expressed.

Why not higher: The task is completed, but the number of grammar, spelling, and collocation mistakes is too high for a 5-level response. The message is functional, yet it lacks the accuracy and naturalness expected in a stronger TOEFL email.

___

In my opinion, cinemas may really disappear as they became [k4: wrong tense] are becoming less and less popular through every year [k3: unnatural time expression] year by year. //In my opinion, cinemas may eventually disappear because their popularity is declining year by year.

Isabella is right that it is similarity with [k4: incorrect structure + k3: inaccurate word choice] there is a similarity between cinemas and video rental stores. Nowadays, [k5: punctuation — a short introductory adverb such as “Nowadays” may be followed by a comma, but it is often omitted in short opening positions] there are so many digital platforms and streaming services like Netflix and Apple TV, [k5: punctuation — no comma is used between “so many...” and the result clause introduced by “that”] that there is no reason to change [k3: inaccurate word choice] exchange soft and comfy armchair [k4: missing determiner + k1: style/register — “comfy” is too informal] a comfortable armchair at home for overcrowded hall [k4: missing article + k3: unnatural phrasing] an overcrowded cinema hall. //Nowadays, with so many streaming services available, many people may prefer watching films from a comfortable armchair at home rather than sitting in a crowded cinema hall.

Thats [k5: wrong spelling / missing apostrophe] That is why I do not feel agreement with [k3: unnatural collocation] agree with Jacob about specific felling [k4: missing article + k5: wrong spelling + k3: unnatural phrasing] the special feeling which only cinema theatre [k3: unnatural/redundant phrase] a cinema can provide. //For this reason, I do not fully agree with Jacob’s claim that cinemas provide a unique experience.

Of course, it depends on persons character [k4: incorrect possessive case + k4: missing article] a person’s character. If you are introversive, you will never understand why it can be better to watch a film with someone. [k2: overgeneralisation + k3: inaccurate word choice + k1: register — avoid direct address and categorical claims in academic discussion] For instance, introverted people may not always value watching films in a large group as much as those who enjoy shared social experiences.

Estimated TOEFL Academic Discussion score: 3 / 6

Strong points:

  • You give a clear opinion: cinemas may disappear.
  • The response engages with both Isabella’s and Jacob’s ideas.
  • The main argument is understandable: streaming services make cinemas less necessary.

Main weaknesses:

  • Frequent grammar and structure problems:
    • cinemas became less popular
    • it is similarity with
    • persons character
  • Several lexical and collocational mistakes:
    • change an armchair for a hall
    • feel agreement with
    • cinema theatre
    • introversive
  • Style is not consistently academic:
    • comfy is too informal.
    • The final sentence is too categorical.
  • The argument is relevant but underdeveloped; it needs one more specific reason or example.
  • Moreover, you don't comment on the other student's opinion. Please add a comment on that.

Why this is around 3/6: The position and basic logic are clear, but the number of grammar, lexical, and register problems is too high for a stronger score. The response communicates the idea, yet it often sounds translated and lacks precise academic phrasing.

TOEFL Speaking Interview: Checked Answers

General score: 27–28 / 30

Overall level: strong B2+ / low C1. The answers are relevant, coherent, and well-developed. Most problems are minor grammar or collocation issues. The weakest answer is the one about Mariam’s husband because of the misrecognised / mispronounced phrase “dead bad father.”

1. How many children do you think a modern woman should have, and why?

As far as I am concerned, a modern woman shouldn't be pressured into having a fixed number of children or even into having children at all. It should be entirely her choice whether she wants to become a mother and when she wants to have children. Some women prefer to have children in their 20s, while others choose to start a family later in life. In my view, a woman should have as many children as she can emotionally and financially support.

Score: 4 / 4

A modern woman should not be expected to follow a fixed family model; rather, she should be free to decide whether and when motherhood fits her life.

2. Should women be encouraged to have more children to sustain the population of a particular ethnic or cultural group? Why or why not?

I do not think women should be encouraged to have children simply to sustain a particular ethnic or cultural group. Women should never be treated as tools for solving demographic problems. However, governments can support women who choose to have children by providing affordable housing, child care [k3: spelling/word form — in this context, the single-word form is more common] childcare services and family-friendly policies. The decision to have children should always remain a personal choice.

Score: 4 / 4

Women should not be reduced to instruments of demographic policy, although governments may create conditions that make parenthood easier for those who choose it.

3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a big family?

I have mixed feelings about big families because they can teach children responsibility and encourage them to take care of others. Children from large families are often less egoistic [k3: lexical choice — “selfish” sounds more natural in this context] selfish and more willing to help their relatives. On the other hand, large families can put significant pressure on parents. Children may lack privacy and sometimes miss out on educational opportunities because they have to help support family [k4: missing determiner] their family. Parents are often overwhelmed and may struggle to make ends meet.

Score: 3.5 / 4

Large families can foster responsibility and mutual support, but they may also place a heavy financial and emotional burden on parents and children.

4. What do you think of Mariam? What do you feel towards her?

Mariam's story is heartbreaking because she had to shoulder adult responsibilities as a child. She was forced into marriage at a very young age and had her first child when she was only 12 years old. Throughout her life she lived in poverty and spend [k4: tense error] spent more of her time [k3: collocation — the intended meaning is probably “most of her time”] most of her time taking care of others. I feel sympathy for her because she seems both strong and exhausted at the same time. Had she had access to proper health care and medical advice earlier, her life might have been very different.

Score: 3.5 / 4

Mariam’s life seems deeply tragic because she was deprived of childhood and forced to carry responsibilities that no child should have to face.

5. How would you help such a family?

I believe that government [k4: article mistake] the government should provide support for education, healthcare and access to contraception. Children should have access to schools, while parents should receive assistance in finding stable employment. Medical care should also be available, especially for women who want to avoid further pregnancies. Although donations can be helpful, long-term solutions should focus on education and poverty reduction rather than relying on charity alone.

Score: 3.5–4 / 4

Such families need systemic support, including schooling, healthcare, reproductive education, and stable employment opportunities, rather than occasional charity alone.

6. Whose fault is it that Mariam couldn’t stop having children earlier?

I do not think it is fair to blame Mariam alone. Many factors contributed to her situation, including early marriage, poverty, lack of education and limited access to healthcare and contraception. In many developing countries, girls are forced into marriage and do not receive enough information about their reproductive health. Her husband's irresponsible behavior also played a significant role.

Score: 4 / 4

Mariam’s situation should be seen as the result of social, economic, and gender-related pressures rather than as her personal failure.

7. Are twins a blessing or a curse? What about triplets or quadruplets?

In my opinion, twins are both a blessing and a burden. It depends largely on the family's circumstances. If parents are financially stable, having twins can be wonderful. However, if a family is already struggling, raising two babies at once can be extremely challenging. Parents of twins often have their hands full. The same is true for triplets or quadruplets, although the financial and emotional burden is usually much greater.

Score: 4 / 4

Whether twins are perceived as a blessing or a burden depends largely on the family’s emotional, financial, and practical resources.

8. How should the government help such families?

Government [k4: article mistake] The government should ensure that children have access to quality education and health care. They [k4: pronoun agreement — “government” is singular here] It can also provide housing support, subsidies and benefits for families with several children. In countries facing population decline, governments should adopt family-friendly policies and subsidize child care [k3: spelling/word form — the single-word form is more common here] childcare to make raising children more affordable.

Score: 3.5 / 4

Governments can ease the pressure on large families by investing in education, healthcare, housing support, and affordable childcare.

9. What do you make of Mariam’s husband, who left her and the children?

I think Mariam's husband acted irresponsibly. He walked out on his family and left her high and dry, then [k4: conjunction mistake] when she needed support the most. In my opinion, he was a selfish and irresponsible person who failed to fulfill his responsibilities as a husband and father. He can fairly be described as a dead bad [k2: illogical block — the intended phrase was probably “deadbeat father”; the word may have been mispronounced or misrecognised by the robot] deadbeat father.

Score: 3.5 / 4

He abandoned his family at the moment when Mariam needed support most, which makes his behaviour deeply irresponsible.

10. Would you like to live in Uganda? Why or why not?

I would definitely like to visit Uganda because it has beautiful nature, very extraordinary [k3: tautological intensification — “extraordinary” is already strong] extraordinary wildlife and a pleasant climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. However, I wouldn't like to live there permanently because there are still serious issues related to poverty, healthcare and education. I think it might be difficult to find well-paid employment and enjoy the same standard of living that is available in many European countries.

Score: 3.5–4 / 4

Uganda would be fascinating to visit because of its natural beauty and wildlife, but I would hesitate to settle there permanently because of economic and social challenges.

11. How do you see the future of humanity?

When it comes to the future of humanity, I believe the main challenge is not only population growth but also inequality. While many developed countries are experiencing population decline, some low-income regions continue to grow rapidly despite limited resources. In the future, governments should focus on improving education, healthcare, and economic opportunities rather than concentrating solely on population numbers.

Score: 4 / 4

The future of humanity will depend not only on population trends, but also on how fairly resources, education, and opportunities are distributed.

12. How should governments help the population grow if the country faces population decline?

Governments can encourage population growth by supporting working parents and creating family-friendly policies. They can provide affordable housing, parental leave, child care [k3: spelling/word form — the single-word form is more common here] childcare services, and financial assistance for families with children. Such measures make it easier for people to balance work and family life.

Score: 4 / 4

To address population decline, governments should make parenthood more compatible with stable employment and decent living conditions.

13. How should governments restrict population growth if the country is overpopulated?

Governments should rely on ethical measures such as improving education, reducing poverty, expanding access to contraception, and promoting voluntary family planning. Women should be informed about their rights and have access to healthcare services. Population growth should be managed through education and choice rather than coercion.

Score: 4 / 4

Population growth should be addressed through voluntary, rights-based policies rather than through pressure, punishment, or coercive control.

14. What is your attitude to the current population of the planet?

I think the problem is not simply that there are too many people on the planet. The real issue is unequal distribution of resources and opportunities. Many people still lack access to education, healthcare and decent living conditions, while some countries face population decline. Therefore, governments should focus on reducing inequality and promoting sustainable development. The jury is still out on the best solution, but improving people's quality of life should be a priority.

Score: 4 / 4

The central problem is not the number of people itself, but the unequal access to resources, security, education, and decent living standards.

Final Speaking Score

Estimated TOEFL-style speaking score: 27–28 / 30

Strengths: clear position, strong coherence, relevant examples, good use of topic vocabulary, and several natural idioms such as “make ends meet,” “have their hands full,” “walked out on his family,” “left her high and dry,” and “the jury is still out.”

Main things to improve: articles with “government,” more natural collocations, occasional pronoun agreement, and careful pronunciation of idiomatic phrases such as “deadbeat father.”