TOEFL 2026 Speaking Interview Practice for Beginners #5

I use my smartphone for many things. In the morning, it wakes me up with an alarm. On the bus, I use it to listen to music and read the news. I also send messages to my friends and family. At night, I watch short videos before bed. My phone is very useful, but sometimes I use it too much. So, I am trying to put it down one hour before I sleep.

Why it works: A "how do you use" question is easy to organize by time of day: in the morning, on the bus, at night. Each time gets one use. The last two sentences add an honest problem and a small plan, which sounds natural.

One app that really helped me is a language app. Last year, I wanted to study English, but I was busy with work. So I downloaded the app and used it for ten minutes every morning on the bus. It gave me short lessons and small games. After six months, I could understand simple English videos. It was easy because I could study anywhere. Now I still use it every day.

Why it works: Name the thing first, then the problem it solved (no time to study). Tell what you did and the result after six months, so the listener can see how it helped. The ending brings the story to today.

I prefer sending messages. First, I can answer when I have time. When I am at work or on the bus, I can't talk on the phone. Second, I can think before I write, so I make fewer mistakes. For example, when I message my teacher, I check my words first. Of course, calling is better for long talks with my family. But for most things, messages are easier for me.

Why it works: Pick one side, then two reasons with First and Second. Messaging a teacher is a small, real example. Saying when the other side is better (long talks with family) before "But for most things" makes the answer sound fair.

I think children should not have their own smartphones until middle school. Young children can use phones too much and stop playing outside. Also, they can see bad videos online. For example, my little cousin is seven, and he cries when his mom takes the tablet away. But older kids need phones to stay in touch with their parents. So I think middle school is the right age.

Why it works: The first sentence gives an opinion with a clear line (until middle school). Two reasons, one example from the family, then one point for the other side. Ending with "the right age" answers the question in a simple, exact way.