This tip is for the TOEFL pros who teach TOEFL.
When teaching TOEFL, it is important to be honest. What do I mean? For example, you rate an independent essay a 4 simply because the student is really trying hard. However, the essay itself is really a 3. Don't give extra points for trying hard. It will give the test-taker a false sense of confidence. Be honest. If the student is writing or speaking at the 2 level, say so. Be honest in your ratings. Why? Because if the student takes the TOEFL test - and she was expecting a high score (like the ones you gave her in class) and she gets a low score - she will look at you and say, "But you said I would get a higher score. What happened?" Avoid such a scenario. Be honest from day one.
This applies to the reading and listening sections as well. If a student is struggling with the reading section, chances are he will ask you for help. Be honest. Tell the student there is no secret or trick to acquiring an academic vocabulary that will help him conquer the reading section. It just won't happen. Acquiring at TOEFL-level vocabulary starts long before a student enrolls in a TOEFL course. Why? Because learning a language is a life-long process. Even now I am still learning new English words and idioms such as "refudiate".
Remember: As a TOFEL pro, your job is not to teach English. Your job is to teach scoring strategies. That is what the student is paying for.
The Pro
