Listening, reading and writing on energy sources and sustainability

III. New TOEFLSpeaking 

2_1. Take an Interview — Sustainability in Everyday Life

An interviewer will ask you questions. Answer the questions and be sure to say as much as you can in the time allowed.

No time for preparation will be provided. You will have 45 seconds to answer each question.

You have agreed to take part in a research study about sustainability, alternative energy sources, and people’s environmental choices. You will have a short online interview with a researcher. The researcher will ask you some questions.

Interviewer: Thank you for speaking with me today. I’m conducting a study about people’s awareness of sustainable living and energy use. I’d like to ask you some questions. [2-second pause] To begin with, how interested are you in environmental issues such as sustainability, recycling, and clean energy?

 
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Interviewer: Great. People try to live sustainably in different ways. Some reduce waste, others save water or electricity, and some try to use public transportation more often. What do you personally do, if anything, to live in a more sustainable way?

 
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Interviewer: I see. Some people believe that individual lifestyle choices can make a real difference for the environment, while others think that the main responsibility lies with governments and large companies. Which view do you agree with more? Why?

 
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Interviewer: Let’s talk specifically about energy. Some people strongly support alternative energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower, while others worry that these sources can be expensive, unreliable, or difficult to expand. What is your overall opinion of alternative energy sources?

 
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Interviewer: In many countries, governments are trying to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. What kinds of energy policies, if any, has your country introduced to promote cleaner or more sustainable energy?

 
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2_2. Take an Interview — Policies, Obstacles, and the Future

An interviewer will ask you questions. Answer the questions and be sure to say as much as you can in the time allowed.

No time for preparation will be provided. You will have 45 seconds to answer each question.

You have agreed to take part in a research study about sustainability, alternative energy sources, and public policy. You will have a short online interview with a researcher. The researcher will ask you some questions.

Interviewer: Some governments offer subsidies for solar panels, electric vehicles, or home insulation. Others invest in large-scale wind farms or public transportation instead. Which of these measures do you think is likely to be more effective in your country? Why?

 
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Interviewer: People often say they support green policies in theory, but in practice they may resist higher prices, new regulations, or changes in their lifestyle. Why do you think sustainable policies are sometimes difficult to introduce or enforce?

 
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Interviewer: Now I’d like to ask about daily life. In your opinion, what are the easiest sustainable habits for ordinary people to adopt, and which habits are the hardest to maintain over time?

 
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Interviewer: Some critics argue that alternative energy sources are not enough on their own and that countries should also reduce overall consumption, waste less, and change the way cities are designed. Do you agree that sustainability requires broader lifestyle and social changes, not just cleaner technology? Why or why not?

 
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Interviewer: Good points. Let me ask you one final question. Looking ahead, do you feel optimistic or pessimistic about the future of sustainability and clean energy in your country? What makes you feel that way?

 
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II. Speaking — Extra Practice (Energy)

1. Independent Speaking_1

Do you agree or disagree: “Governments should provide long-term subsidies for rooftop solar to all households, regardless of income.”

 
Get Ready: 00:15

Preparation time - 15 seconds, speaking time - 45 seconds.

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2. Independent Speaking_2

For your city, which investment would be more effective: expanding electric public transit or incentivizing more fuel-efficient private cars? Explain your choice with reasons.

 
Get Ready: 00:15

Preparation time - 15 seconds, speaking time - 45 seconds.

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3. Independent Speaking_3

Would you personally accept higher electricity prices if it guaranteed your power came from 100% renewable sources? Explain with details and examples.

 
Get Ready: 00:15

Preparation time - 15 seconds, speaking time - 45 seconds.

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Show / hide old format toefl speaking (integrated)

Listening, reading and writing on energy sources and sustainability