Development = Higher Speaking and Writing Scores

How can you increase your writing and speaking scores? Simple. Development. Development. Development. Let's talk about it.

If you get a low independent essay score, it was probably because you did not give enough specific information (details that support examples). Independent essays that score 4.0 and above have lots of supporting details in the body paragraphs. Those that score 4.0 or less have fewer details. Details (examples) support and develop your opinion (thesis). This is true of the integrated essay as well. An integrated essay that scores above 4.0 has lots of details from the reading and lecture. Integrated essays that score less than 4.0 are missing important details. I know. I see this all the time in my TOEFL classes.

Remember: When you give details, when writing or  speaking, you are also demonstrating language use. If your language use is proficient, it will, in turn, will result in greater coherence = higher writing and speaking scores = a higher TOEFL iBT score.

Why is development so important when writing and speaking? Because, as mentioned, development is directly related to language use. Let's put it to the test. Look at the following photo, then read the two passages. Note: The passages can be both written or verbal.

Response #1

This is a photo of a woman in a dress and short hair. She has a necklace and is not smiling. She looks young. She is ready for a club or something. 

Response #2

In this black-and-white photograph, a poised young woman, probably a flapper, stares defiantly off screen with probing eyes. Around her slender neck hangs a string of exquisite pearls. She clutches them against her breast, pulling them down as if she herself were on a chain. Her deep black eyes, set against ivory skin, radiate confidence, a desire to tempt and be tempted. Where is she going in that sexy, shoulderless dress, that none-too subtle invitation? What is she thinking under that toss of naughty curls? We'll never know. One thing is for certain: the devil is in the details..

You are a TOEFL rater. Which response will get a higher score? It's obvious, right?

Remember: Development. Development. Development. I cannot stress this point enough.

Want to learn development strategies for speaking and writing? Click on my book.