TOEFL 2026 Speaking Practice — Level Medium (for score 90+) #19

Listen to each question and give a spoken response. Aim to speak for 20–30 seconds per answer.

Score 100 — Perfect

I remember a time when I took an online coding workshop last month, which was a pretty big change for me. Honestly, I was worried it wouldn’t be as effective as a traditional classroom, but it actually turned out to be a really compelling experience. The instructor used a screen-sharing tool so we could watch his code in real-time, and that made the complex concepts much easier to grasp. Because of this, I didn’t feel lost like I usually do in big lecture halls. Not only that, but the chat feature allowed us to ask questions instantly without interrupting the flow, which was a huge plus. It was a more nuanced approach to learning than I expected. Overall, I’d say the flexibility of that online environment was just as effective as being there in person.

135 words

Score 80 — Good

I remember a time when I took an online coding workshop last month. It was basically a series of live video lectures where the instructor shared his screen. It was actually pretty effective for me because I could pause the video whenever I got confused and re-watch the tricky parts. In a traditional classroom, I feel kind of shy about interrupting the teacher, so I usually just stay quiet and get lost. But with this online format, I could learn at my own pace and just focus on the code. I mean, it was really convenient to study from my desk at home, and I think I learned a lot more that way.

113 words

Score 100 — Perfect

In my case, I tend to prefer traditional, in-person classes over online learning. I mean, for me, the physical classroom environment is just more conducive to staying focused. When I’m at home, I’m constantly surrounded by distractions like my phone or just the comfort of my bed, which makes it hard to stay on track. For instance, last semester I took an online history course, and I found it **profoundly** difficult to stay engaged during the lectures. In contrast, when I’m actually sitting in a lecture hall with other students, I feel a sense of accountability. It’s way easier to ask questions and participate in discussions. So, while online learning is flexible, I feel that the face-to-face interaction is **pivotal** for my academic success. That’s why I’ll always choose a physical classroom.

132 words

Score 80 — Good

In my case, I tend to prefer traditional classroom settings over online learning. I mean, I really enjoy the face-to-face interaction with my professors and classmates, you know? When I’m in a physical classroom, I feel like I’m much more focused because there are fewer distractions compared to being at home. Like, if I’m studying in my room, I get distracted by my phone or just want to take a nap, but in a classroom, I have to pay attention. Also, it’s easier to ask questions and get help right away. So, for me, being in a school environment is just better for staying on track and learning new things.

110 words

Score 100 — Perfect

Personally, I would prefer traditional, in-person classes, honestly. I mean, while online platforms are convenient, I think nothing beats the spontaneous energy of a physical classroom. For instance, last semester I took a marketing course at Seoul National University, and the way we could just brainstorm ideas during breaks was so valuable. Because of this, it was much easier to form genuine connections with my peers compared to just typing in a chat box. It’s kind of a night-and-day difference, right? I feel like building a professional network is inherently more successful when you’re interacting face-to-face. You get those subtle social cues that you just don’t get through a screen. So, for me, the human element in a traditional setting is pretty much essential for long-term collaboration and growth.

129 words

Score 80 — Good

Personally, I would prefer traditional face-to-face classes because I think being in a classroom is really important for making friends. You know, when you’re sitting next to someone, it’s just so much easier to start a conversation and build a real connection. Online classes are okay, but they feel kind of lonely sometimes. Like, I’ve tried Zoom classes before, but it’s hard to talk to people naturally because everyone is muted, right? So, I feel like you miss out on those spontaneous moments that happen before or after a lecture. For me, meeting people in person is just better for networking and also for having a more enjoyable school experience.

110 words

Score 100 — Perfect

I think it is better to require at least some in-person attendance, because you just can’t replicate that face-to-face dynamic online. For instance, last semester I took an economics course entirely on Zoom, and it was pretty much impossible to build a rapport with my professor. I mean, asking questions through a chat box just isn’t the same as having a spontaneous conversation after class. When you’re physically there, the collaboration is inherently more effective. Not only that, but being in a classroom helps you stay focused, whereas at home, I’m constantly distracted by my phone or chores. It’s a bit counterintuitive in our digital age, but I’ve found that being in a shared space is pivotal for actually grasping complex ideas. So yeah, I’m definitely in favor of keeping a traditional component.

133 words

Score 80 — Good

I think it is better to have some in-person classes because you really need that face-to-face time. Online learning is convenient, sure, but it’s just not the same as being in a room with other people. When you’re physically there, you can ask questions more easily and talk to your classmates during breaks. It’s also easier to stay focused because you don’t have all the distractions of being at home, like your phone or the TV. I mean, online stuff is okay, but I think you learn way more when you’re actually sitting in a classroom. So yeah, I definitely think in-person sessions are important for everyone.

107 words