TOEFL Writing: Mastering the Academic Discussion Task
Welcome back to Dr. Byrnes’ TOEFL Show! Just like Rome wasn’t built in a day, TOEFL success comes from consistent daily practice. Today, we focus on the Academic Discussion task in the TOEFL Writing section—a topic often misunderstood by many instructors.
A common mistake is thinking “contribution” means staying neutral and presenting both sides equally. This usually lowers your score because your response lacks a clear thesis or becomes inconsistent. True contribution means taking a clear position and supporting it with strong reasons and examples, just like in philosophy or law courses.
Key points for success:
-
Choose a clear stance (thesis) from the start.
-
Support your position consistently using logical reasons, examples, or personal experiences.
-
Avoid shifting positions mid-essay—this weakens your argument.
Example of a weak essay:
A student wrote that both exercise and environment are essential for mental health. While the essay had correct grammar after revision, it remained neutral and inconsistent. The introduction favored both, but the conclusion suggested exercise is more important—this lack of clarity lowers the score.
How to improve:
-
Full Support Method: Pick one side and develop it fully. Go beyond obvious points with examples or personal anecdotes.
-
Concession and Refutation Method: Acknowledge the opposing view, then show why your argument is stronger.
Example using Concession and Refutation:
-
Concede: Environment affects mental health.
-
Refute: Environmental factors are often uncontrollable, whereas exercise is a proactive and reliable way to improve mental health.
By practicing these methods, your Academic Discussion essays become clear, persuasive, and consistent—the qualities TOEFL raters want.
Pro tip: Study model essays and TOEFL Speaking responses to naturally internalize advanced argumentation and communication patterns. Dr. Byrnes’ courses offer these resources, helping you train the right skills for top scores.